Click the play button on the video window to the right to see the storyPHOENIX -- The first Arizona human case of West Nile Virus for the 2009 season was confirmed Wednesday by Maricopa County and state officials.
A woman in her 40s was released from a local Valley hospital and is now recovering from the virus, according to the Maricopa County Department of Public Heath and the Arizona Department of Health Services.
This is the third case reported this year in the United States.
"With the Independence Day holiday upon us, this first case is a reminder of the precautions we should all be taking this weekend," said Director of the Maricopa County Department of Public Health Dr. Bob England.
Public health officials are making several recommendations to help prevent the spread of the West Nile Virus, which include applying insect repellent, wearing long clothing and avoiding outdoor activity after dusk and before dawn.
Meanwhile, members of the Maricopa County Environmental Services Division are gearing up for a busy time of the year.
"We're busy year-round, but this time of year, with the Monsoon and heating up, it's certainly mosquito season and we're prepared," said Vector Control Supervisor David Guerrieri.
Wednesday afternoon, technicians working in the Environmental Services Lab headed by Guerrieri received some unusual results.
Those who work in the lab test thousands of mosquitoes for West Nile, but the results Wednesday from 17 different mosquito traps were unexpected.
"Of the 17-ramp tests, five (mosquitoes) were positive for West Nile, that's the most we've had in one day," said Environmental Sanitarian Thomas Waldbillig as he wrapped up his day in the lab.
Crews from the Maricopa County Environmental Services Division will now go out and spray the areas where the traps were located.
Waldbillig and others in the department conduct a variety of tests that reveal more detailed information for each mosquito.
"We can find out whether or not you have a male or female or the type of species which will dictate what our options may be to treat the areas where we find infected mosquitoes," said Guerrieri.
Guerrieri went on to say the public needs to take precautions as well and report green pools to his department.
Some tips for mosquito-proofing your home are:
- Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites near your property by making sure that any standing water is drained.
- Have reliable window and door screens
- Keep debris out of fountains, swimming pools and animal troughs
So far, officials are confident that their enhanced mosquito surveillance program, which includes sampling and testing of mosquitoes and dead birds, is working.
"This year mosquitoes positive for West Nile virus were discovered before we confirmed our first human case," Interim Director for the Maricopa County Department of Environmental Services John Kolman said.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans by a bite from an infected mosquito.
Around 20 percent of the people infected with West Nile Virus will feel flu-like symptoms between three to 15 days after they are bit.
Mild symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph glands and skin rash on the chest, stomach and back, according to officials.
A small percentage of infected people show severe symptoms like meningitis, encephalitis, paralysis and death, especially if they are over 50 years old.
If an individual thinks they are showing symptoms of West Nile Virus, health officials recommend that they meet with a health consultant, however most infected people display no symptoms at all.
To report a green pool, standing water or to receive free fish that eat mosquito larvae, go to www.maricopa.gov/Public_Health/HotTopics/wnv for more information.
