Explanation of the main symptoms of West Nile virus
West Nile virus is the most common cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States, with the highest concentration in the Midwest. Here’s how to tell if you’re infected.
USA TODAY
According to the New Mexico Department of Health, the first case of West Nile virus was reported in New Mexico last week.
A Union County resident has been diagnosed with the disease, according to an Aug. 6 news release from the state Department of Health. The person’s name was not released to the media, but the New Mexico Department of Health said the person is recovering at home and does not require hospitalization.
Although this is the first case in the state, the disease has already spread to 26 other states and has killed seven people so far in 2024.
West Nile virus claims lives in the USA
On August 8, a woman in her 50s from Dallas County, Texas, died of West Nile virus. She was one of several people diagnosed with the disease as the county reported high numbers of mosquito infestations following regional storms that caused standing water to accumulate.
According to the CDC, seven people have died from the disease. A California man and an Oklahoma resident died from the virus in July.
More: Oklahoma officials report first West Nile case in state, death in 2024
The CDC reported that 103 people in 26 states have been infected with West Nile virus and 68 have developed the neuroinvasive form of the disease.
Historical data from the CDC show that there have been more than 59,000 cases and nearly 3,000 deaths since 1999, when West Nile virus was first introduced to the United States. The same data show that 785 cases were reported in New Mexico during that time period.
Only two cases have been reported in Doña Ana County in 2023. None have been reported so far in 2024.
What is West Nile virus?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that occurs in the Americas.
In New Mexico, mosquitoes of the genus Culex are the main vectors. The mosquito bites an infected bird and then transmits the virus to its human prey. West Nile virus is not transmitted from person to person.
Prevent infection by eliminating the risk of mosquito bites
“Preventing mosquito bites is our first line of defense against West Nile virus,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, NMHealth’s chief medical officer. “Protect yourself and your loved ones by using insect repellent and avoiding standing water.”
Recommended measures to prevent infection include:
- Use an approved insect repellent every time you go outdoors and follow the directions on the label. EPA-approved insect repellents include those containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and lemon eucalyptus oil/paramenthanediol.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and long pants at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Eliminate water-containing containers where mosquitoes lay their eggs, such as old tires, empty cans, and other unneeded outdoor items that may contain water. Drain water from birdbaths, wading pools, and saucers under potted plants weekly.
- Make sure rain barrels are tightly closed.
- Keep windows and doors closed if they are not fitted with screens. If you leave your front doors or windows open, make sure they have screens that are firmly fitted and do not have any holes.
No medications or treatments to prevent infection in humans.
