West Nile virus makes its 2006 arrival in Arizona

West Nile Virus has made its first appearance of 2006 in Arizona, and state and local health officials are encouraging everyone to take precautions against the disease.

Two mosquito samples collected June 27 by health officials in La Paz County tested positive for West Nile virus at the Arizona State Health Laboratory. These are the first mosquito samples to test positive this year. No human cases have been reported.

Since its first arrival in Arizona in 2003, more than 500 residents have been infected with the disease. Twenty deaths have been attributed to West Nile in the state.

"Although we can't predict how severe the West Nile season will be this year, it is important that we all take steps to protect ourselves from mosquitoes," said David Engelthaler, State Epidemiologist. "West Nile is just as serious this year as it was in previous years; it will still cause serious illness and probably even deaths."

The arrival of the monsoon season is likely to increase West Nile activity because mosquitoes breed in standing water.

"Be prepared," Engelthaler urged. "Use insect repellent, and wear protective clothing, especially between dusk and dawn and in areas where mosquitoes are active. One of the most important things we can do is to be sure we are not raising mosquitoes in our pools, ponds and birdbaths"