West Nile Virus Late Season Increase in Confirmed Cases.
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Just one bite... is all it takes... so prevention in the fall is the thing to do.
Photo: File - VPC
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T
the official number of cases confirmed by the Texas Department of Health has risen to 25 identified cases of West Nile Virus in our area and one person who was infected has died. The actual number of person infected with West Nile Virus from mosquitoes is probably in the thousands. The late season increase in numbers of confirmed cases continues to jump dramatically.
A recent press release from the City of El Paso's Department of Public Health indicated a total of seven new cases of West Nile Virus have been identified within the last week, the following cases were added to the list:
63-year-old male residing in the 79905 zip code
25-year-old male residing in the 79935 zip code
15-year-old female residing in the 79838 zip code
67-year-old male residing in the 79935 zip code
21-year-old male residing in the 79907 zip code
65-year-old male residing in the 79912 zip code
55-year-old female residing in the 79936 zip code
The number is now officially 18. But, perhaps thousands of people have been infected but did not show symptoms significant enough for hospitalization or a doctors visit.
Because mosquitoes are the main source for transmitting the virus, the 4 D’s are ways to prevent mosquito bites and mosquito breeding.
Dusk and dawn are when mosquitoes are most active. Avoid outdoor activities during these times.
Dress – If you are outside, cover up by wearing pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks.
Drain standing water on the ground, water in tires, plastic containers, cans, kiddie pools or any other type of container that can hold water. Mosquitoes can lay their eggs in very little water.
DEET – Use a mosquito repellent that contains DEET (chemical name N,N-diethyl-metatolumide). Be sure to follow the instructions for use on the container.
Other tips:
Check window and door screens and repair any holes. Make sure door seals are secure.
Do not over-irrigate your farmland or property as this allows water to stagnate and mosquitoes to breed.
Prepared by UVB staff.
(Photos: Brax - Valley Publishing Company)
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