Division of Public Health Services
Office of the Assistant Director
Public Information Office
150 N. 18th Ave. JANET NAPOLITANO, GOVERNOR
Phoenix, Arizona 85007-2670 SUSAN GERARD, DIRECTOR
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Sept. 26, 2006
Contact: Michael Murphy, ADHS Public Information: (602) 542-1094
Jeanene Fowler, Maricopa County Public Health: (602) 506-4926
Joe Pyritz, Pinal County Public Information Officer: (520) 866-6226
Maricopa and Pinal Counties’ First Deaths from West Nile in 2006 Highlight Continuing Danger
Maricopa County and Pinal counties have recorded their first deaths in 2006 associated with complications from West Nile virus.
The deaths come as public health officials are reporting a late season peak in West Nile activity.
“The monsoon may be over, but the risk for West Nile virus isn’t,” said state Health Director Susan Gerard. "For most people, the risk of serious illness from West Nile virus is low, but these unfortunate deaths remind us that we must continue to take precautions to protect ourselves and our families from mosquito bites."
To date in 2006, West Nile activity has been detected in 13 of Arizona’s 15 counties, and 45 individuals have become ill after exposure to WNV, including three elderly adults who died. The first West Nile death of 2006 occurred in Pima County.
The most effective ways for individuals to prevent WNV are:
- Apply insect repellent to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
- Ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
- Eliminate all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding.
The state has established a web site, www.westnileaz.com, and a toll-free number, 1-800-314-9243, (Metro Phoenix: 602-364-4500), to provide additional information.
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