Hot Weather Brings Greater Threat of West Nile Virus

or additional information:	Johnny Diloné, Public Information Officer – Environmental Services Office: 602-506-6611, Cell: 602-525-2423
	Emily Poland, Public Information Officer – Public Health Office: 602-506-6607,  Cell: 602-722-1806
June 17, 2005

Hot Weather Brings Greater Threat of West Nile Virus

PHOENIX –Recent test results from the Maricopa County West Nile Virus (WNV) surveillance program are showing increased number of mosquitoes across the Valley.  WNV positive mosquitoes have been found in the area from McDowell Rd. to University Ave. and the Loop 101 to Priest Dr. This area includes a number of recreational facilities and popular tourist attractions.  The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department has been working with local governments and private agencies to reduce the risk to residents living in or visiting the area.

Each organization is actively working together to address the issue with an integrated pest management program involving the use of larvicides and adulticides.

“As a result of these efforts the number of mosquitoes in the area has been reduced and the most recent samples have tested negative for WNV carrying mosquitoes in this area,” said Assistant County Manager, Joy Rich.

“The public should be made aware of the situation and take precautions. So far the county has not experienced the numbers of West Nile Virus positive mosquito pools and human cases from this time last year. However, this is the time of year when we begin to see an increase in West Nile Virus positive mosquitoes,” said Doug Campos-Outcalt M.D., chief health officer for Maricopa County

All Maricopa County residents should continue to take precautions no matter where they reside or visit. These precautions include:

• Avoid outdoor activity before dawn and after dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• When outdoors wear a mosquito repellant (follow label instructions, especially for use on children).
• When outdoors wear long sleeves and long pants to prevent mosquito bites.
• Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around the home by removing standing water in potted plants, tires and other containers.
• Repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of the home.
• Contact Maricopa County for drop-off locations for possible WNV related dead birds
• Report stagnant water such as green pools

For more information or submitting reports about West Nile Virus visit www.maricopa.gov/wnv or call 602-506-0700.