New Mexico health officials are urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites as the peak season for West Nile virus approaches.
While no human cases have been reported in New Mexico this year, recent rains have created ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
“Infected mosquitoes can transmit several diseases to humans, including West Nile virus, which causes illness in humans, horses and birds,” said Erin Phipps, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) state public health veterinarian. “Peak time for West Nile in New Mexico is usually July and August.”
The warning comes as the City of Albuquerque Environmental Health Department has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in mosquitoes collected through routine monitoring across the city.
“Our focus remains on prevention methods to protect public health in relation to mosquitoes around the city,” said Paul Rogers, City of Albuquerque Environmental Health Department Director. “Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus will be around until there is a good hard frost in the area, and we urge people to continue to take precautions against mosquito bites throughout the rest of the season.”
Common symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider. In rare instances, the virus can lead to more severe conditions such as meningitis or encephalitis.
To protect yourself and your family from West Nile virus infection, health officials recommend the following:
- Use insect repellent: Apply repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to exposed skin and clothing. For clothing, permethrin is recommended. Always follow label directions.
- Wear protective clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks when outdoors.
- Limit outdoor activity during peak hours: Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn. Take extra care with repellent and protective clothing, or consider avoiding outdoor activities during these times.
- Eliminate standing water: Regularly empty water from containers like old tires, birdbaths, wading pools, and pet water bowls. Ensure rain barrels are tightly screened.
- Secure windows and doors: Keep windows and doors closed or ensure they have tightly fitting screens without holes.
For more information on West Nile virus, including fact sheets in English and Spanish, visit the West Nile Virus section of the NMDOH website.
