Celebrate your Independence from Mosquitoes - Fight the Bite

July 1, 2005

Celebrate your Independence from Mosquitoes - Fight the Bite!

This holiday weekend, many Maricopa County residents will go out to enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks displays throughout the valley and participate in other various outdoor activities. Before the festivities begin, the Maricopa County Public Health and Environmental Services departments would like to remind residents to take precautions against West Nile Virus (WNV).

“It is important we are aware and take the proper preventative measures to fight the bite, and protect ourselves and our families from West Nile Virus.” said Joy Rich, Assistant Maricopa County Manager.

West Nile Virus is a serious and potentially deadly disease that is most often spread by the bite of mosquitoes that have become infected from feeding on infected birds.       

“Prevention is the best tool we have”, said Doug Campos-Outcalt M.D., Interim Chief Health Officer for Maricopa County.  “There is no vaccine for WNV, and treatment will only relieve your symptoms. You are your best protection against West Nile Virus.”

Remember that mosquitoes are most active after dusk and before dawn. 

Take these precautions to prevent West Nile Virus:

• When outdoors wear long sleeves and long pants to prevent mosquito bites.
• When outdoors wear a mosquito repellant containing DEET (follow label instructions, especially for use on children).
• Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around your property by removing standing water in potted plants, tires and other containers.
• Repair damaged window and door screens.
• Contact Maricopa County for drop-off locations for possible WNV positive dead birds
• Report stagnant water such as green pools

 So far this year, Maricopa County Public Health and Environmental Services departments have received laboratory-confirmation of one human case of West Nile, 14 WNV positive mosquito traps, 2 positive horses, and 4 positive sentinel chickens flocks.

For more information on West Nile Virus, dead bird drop off, or to file complaints, call (602) 506-0700 or visit www.maricopa.gov/wnv

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