Binational Effort Fights Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

EL PASO, TX — Health authorities are now out in force, working to control the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses. Recent heavy rains have provided an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes and officials on both sides of the border have recorded a spikein the diseases the pests carry.

Mexico has recorded an increase in dengue fever, which can cause internal bleeding in infected humans. Residents in the state of Tamaulipas are especially at risk, where officials have declared an emergency warning in five coastal cities.

The West Nile virus is a growing concern in the immediate border region. Nine new cases were reported in New Mexico in recent weeks, including one that turned fatal in Roswell. The problem continues to worsen in Dona Ana County, which has the highest number of confirmed cases in the state.

Under a binational program, El Paso and Juarez crews continue to spray target areas where disease-carrying mosquitos have been detected.

“There’s no border where mosquitoes are concerned,” said Dr. Hector Puertas of the Chihuahua Health Department. “That’s why the U.S. and Mexico are working together to trap and test mosquitoes.”

Health experts warn the mosquito threat will continue until the first frost of the year, which should occur in October or November.

By Angela Korcherga and Kevin Pytcher, ABC 7