Health Officials Confirm 3 Cases Of West Nile Virus In El Paso

The City of El Paso Department of Public Health confirmed three human cases of West Nile virus in the El Paso area on Wednesday.

Officials said a 64-year-old woman — the most recent case — who lives in 79935 ZIP code currently being treated.

The second case was a person who did not show symptoms of West Nile virus, but was diagnosed after donating blood. Because the source of the virus in the first case is undetermined, no details regarding that patient will be released.

The third case involves a 65-year-old man who lives in the 79927 ZIP code.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the West Nile virus is spread by infected mosquitoes and can cause serious and even fatal disease. The most serious manifestation of West Nile virus infection is fatal encephalitis — inflammation of the brain — in humans and horses, as well as mortality in certain domestic and wild birds.

“We continue to get the word out about confirmed cases of West Nile in our area so that residents don’t forget that the disease still exists and that it can become serious,” Fernando Gonzalez, Department of Public Health lead epidemiologist, said in a news release. “Taking precautions like using insect repellent and draining standing water outside your home should be as common as putting sunblock on your children and making sure the doors are locked before you go to bed,” he added.

The chance that any one person is going to become ill from a single mosquito bite remains low. The risk of severe illness and death is highest for people over 50 years old, although people of all ages can become ill.

Department officials stress the importance of following recommendations for avoiding mosquito breeding or mosquito bites: –Using insect repellents that contain DEET, picardin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. –Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. –If you are outdoors, wear long-sleeves, pants and socks when weather permits. –Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs. –Install or repair window and door screens.

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