As Many as 7 Possible Cases of West Nile Virus Reported in Cochise County

If you live in Cochise County, it’s more important than ever to make sure you’re not giving mosquitoes a place to breed. With all the rain we’ve had this year, dumping out any outside container that could hold standing water has become a full-time job. If you haven’t given your property the once-over lately, now is the time to make sure you’re not growing mosquito larvae.

a close up of a mosquito on a person's arm

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Cochise County health officials are urging residents to be extra careful, because mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been spreading the illness, with several confirmed cases in the Sierra Vista area. As of October 6th, the county has four confirmed and three probable cases, all found in and around Sierra Vista. Officials have not released any personal information about those infected.

RELATED: How Early Heat In Arizona Increases Mosquito Threats

Photo by Val Davidson/TSM

What is the West Nile virus?

West Nile virus spreads mostly through bites from infected Culex mosquitoes, according to the website Mosquito Talk. These mosquitoes catch the virus after feeding on birds that carry it, then pass it to people and horses. It is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

READ ALSO: West Nile Virus Cases Confirmed In Cochise County

a bird standing on top of a dry grass field

What symptoms should you look out for?

Most people who get West Nile virus aren’t aware they’re infected. The CDC says about 80% of infected people have no symptoms. About 20% may feel sick with flu-like symptoms like fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. These symptoms usually show up anywhere from two to fourteen days after a mosquito bite.

In rare cases, symptoms can be severe enough that they affect the nervous system. According to the Mayo Clinic, this can cause confusion, neck stiffness, tremors, muscle weakness, paralysis, meningitis, or encephalitis.

a woman laying in a hospital bed with an iv in her hand

How Serious Is It?

The good news is that serious illness from West Nile virus is rare. The CDC reports that fewer than 1 in 100 people infected develop severe neurological problems, or about 1 in 150 cases. Of those who do get severe disease, about 10% die. The illness is more serious in older adults and people with weak immune systems, according to PubMed.

The best way to combat West Nile Virus and prevent its spread is to stop mosquitoes from breeding. Health officials recommend using EPA-approved insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and removing any standing water near your home.