3 New Cases Of West Nile Virus Found In El Paso County

The City of El Paso Department of Public Health has identified three new cases of West Nile Virus, bringing the total count for the year to seven.

The disease was identified in a 35-year-old man, a 57-year-old woman and a 79-year-old woman. They reside in the 79927, 79912 and 79907 zip codes, respectively. It should be noted that the total so far this year is lower than the number of cases identified at this same time last year.

The department reminds residents in the area that the potential for West Nile exists throughout our region and also reminds the public that fighting mosquito bites reduces your risk of getting this disease, along with other diseases that mosquitoes can carry. The four D’s are ways to prevent mosquito bites and mosquito breeding.

– Dusk and dawn are when mosquitoes are most active. Avoid outdoor activities during these times. – Dress – If you are outside, cover up by wearing pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks. – Drain standing water on the ground, water in tires, plastic containers, cans, kiddie pools or any other type of container that can hold water. Mosquitoes can lay their egg in very little water. – DEET – Use a mosquito repellent that contains DEET (chemical name N,N-diethyl-metatolumide). Be sure to follow the instructions for use on the container.

Other tips:

– Check window and door screens and repair any holes. Make sure door seals are secure. – Do not over-irrigate your farmland or property as this allows water to stagnate and mosquitoes to breed.

The code compliance inspectors assigned to vector control have been treating areas countywide to combat mosquito breeding. Inspectors have also treated neighborhoods where residents, who have been infected with the West Nile virus, reside. To report mosquito breeding, call the Code Compliance Division of the City of El Paso Environmental Services Department at 599-6290.

Additional information can be found by clicking the West Nile Virus link on the Health Department homepage at www.elpasotexas.gov/health