Image-courtesy CISD

The El Paso City-County Health and Environmental District has now confirmed three human cases of West Nile Virus ranging from the far east El Paso area to West El Paso.

The first case of West Nile Virus (WNV)is a 44 year-old female patient who resides in the Tornillo area. She was admitted to Thomason Hospital on July 25th and was released on July 27th.

The second confirmed (WNV) case was a 67 year-old male also from Tornillo.  The patient was admitted to Thomason Hospital on July 30 with headache, fever, nausea and confusion.  He was discharged from the hospital on August 3.   

The third case is a 55 year-old female who resides in West El Paso in the 79912 zip code area. The woman was seen in the emergency room of a local hospital, but was not admitted. 

Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to minimize the risk of contracting WEE or WNV.   You can reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes by taking the following precautions:  

* Eliminate all temporary water containers, such as tin cans, old tires, pails or anything that holds water.
* If possible, stay inside between dusk and dawn.  This is when the mosquitoes are most likely to bite.
* When outdoors and mosquitoes are present, wear shoes and socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt.
* Avoid the use of perfumed products, such as scented deodorants, cologne and soap.  They attract mosquitoes.
* Go to open sunny spots away from trees, bushes or high grass.
* Use mosquito repellent on exposed skin when it is necessary to be outdoors.
* Use mosquito repellents with no more than 30% DEET, but use sparingly and with care.  Products containing 15% or less DEET are recommended for children, but products containing DEET should not be used on infants.  Carefully read and follow directions on the container and wash treated skin when mosquito exposure has ended.    There are some recent reports that DEET may pose a danger in usage.  As always, consult with your physician before using any medication or treatment.
* Repair window and door screening.
* Check doors and windows for close fit.
* Remove or empty sources of standing water in birdbaths, fish ponds, children's wading pools, flowerpots, water troughs, barrel and any other containers where mosquitoes might breed.
* Fill in any low lying areas that collect water on your property
* Keep swimming pools properly maintained, chlorinated or drained when not in use.
* Change water in pet dishes daily.
* Only water gardens and grass when necessary (a good soak once a week should be enough).
* Check your sprinkler system for leaks or broken heads that may cause ponding.  

Western Equine Encephalitis is more virulent in horses.  Owners should have a veterinarian vaccinate their horses against the encephalitis viruses that can infect their animals.

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Editor, Upper Valley Beacon

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