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For additional information: |
Johnny Diloné, Public Information Officer –
Environmental Services
Office: 602-506-6611, Cell: 602-525-2423 |
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Jeanene Fowler, Public Information Officer – Public Health
Office: 602-506-4926, Cell: 602-722-1806 |
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June 8, 2007 |
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Mosquito sample tests positive
for West Nile Virus
County urges residents to “Fight the Bite”
PHOENIX — A mosquito sample collected by Maricopa County Vector Control officials in the Chandler area has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV).
“This is another indication that West Nile virus is a current health risk and every Maricopa County resident needs to take the proper precautions to prevent mosquito breeding,” said Fulton Brock, Chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. “We all need to take part to ‘Fight the Bite’. We’re all in this together”, added Brock.
Two weeks ago, tests conducted on a horse in North Phoenix confirmed the animal was infected with West Nile virus (WNV), becoming the first equine case this year in Maricopa County and the state.
While the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department Vector Control staff conducts extensive proactive efforts to eliminate mosquitoes by treating routine breeding sites as well as responding to citizen’s complaints, each Maricopa County resident is encouraged to do their part in taking the necessary steps to protect themselves and their community against West Nile virus.
There are several measures each individual can take to prevent mosquito breeding that may lead to West Nile virus infection:
- Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around the home by removing standing water in potted plants, tires and other containers.
- Make sure pools and decorative ponds are properly maintained and operational.
- Repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of the home.
- Remove unnecessary clutter.
- Avoid outdoor activity before dawn and after dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- When outdoors wear long sleeves and long pants to prevent mosquito bites.
- When outdoors wear a mosquito repellant (follow label instructions, especially for use on children).
- Report dead birds to local authorities.
So far this year, Maricopa County Department of Public Health has not received any laboratory-confirmation of human cases of West Nile virus infection. Last year, Maricopa County had 64 confirmed West Nile virus cases, and 3 deaths.
For more information on West Nile virus, as well as for WNV dead bird drop-off locations, to report green pools or file any mosquito related complaint, and for WNV materials or presentations for your group/organization, call (602) 506-0700 or visit www.maricopa.gov/wnv
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