Wet weather ideal for disease carrying mosquitoes

Mosquitoes pack a much greater threat than a ruined backyard barbecue. They are host to the mosquito-borne disease West Nile Virus.

The recent rain in Curry and Roosevelt counties has provided favorable conditions for the annoying little pest to thrive, state and city officials said.

“Any time there is a lot of moisture there is an increased chance for West Nile Virus,” said Deborah Busemeyer, New Mexico Department of Health communications director.

City officials have taken steps to control and eliminate mosquitoes.

“We have been working on prevention and treatment since March,” said City of Clovis Vector Control officer Francis Warner.

City of Portales Public Works Director Tom Howell said that the drainage ditches in Portales are treated with a larvicide to prevent the mosquitoes’ development.

“We will treat the ditches as frequently as once a month,” Howell said. “We will monitor the ditches throughout the year for standing water.”

Warner said the greatest threat comes from standing water that can not be seen.

“The unkept pool in the backyard can be a prime breeding ground,” Warner said. “The homeowner can help out immensely by treating the pool and any standing water on their property.”

Busemeyer said there have been no confirmed cases of West Nile in New Mexico this year.

There were 60 cases in New Mexico last year, including two in Curry County and one in Roosevelt County, according to the department of health.

“The disease is here to stay, and it is not going to go away,” Warner said.

The West Nile virus is usually spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Most of the time, the virus causes a mild illness but in extreme cases can also cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) or polio-like paralysis.

Number of confirmed cases of West Nile Virus in humans  
By state and county:

2003
New Mexico 209   
Roosevelt 5
Curry 25
Quay 5
Total fatal cases 4

2004
NM 88   
Roosevelt 1
Curry 4
Quay 2
Total fatal cases 4

2005
NM 33    
Roosevelt 0
Curry 1
Quay 1
Total fatal cases 2

2006
NM  8   
Roosevelt 1
Curry 0
Quay 0
Total fatal cases 1

2007

NM  60   

Total fatal cases 3

Roosevelt 1

Curry 2

Quay 0

How is West Nile virus infection spread?

The bite of an infected mosquito is the most common way West Nile virus is spread.

 Blood transfusions and organ transplants have caused some infections. It is unclear whether

an infected mother may transmit the virus to her unborn or nursing children.

How long are people contagious?

People are not contagious.

Who gets West Nile virus?

Anyone can get West Nile virus, but persons 50 years and older are at greater risk.

What treatment is available for people with West Nile virus?

There is no specific treatment. Since West Nile infection is not caused by bacteria,

antibiotics will not work to treat the patient. Instead, doctors will try to reduce the

symptoms with other medicines. Most people recover from this illness. There is no

vaccine for humans.

How can I protect myself and my family from getting West Nile virus?

Protect against mosquito bites in the following ways:

• Wear long, loose and lightcolored clothing.

• Reduce your time outdoors when mosquitoes are biting (e.g., night time).

• Use insect repellent. Follow the product’s directions for use.

· Use screens on windows and doors in your house.

Control the mosquito population:

• Turn over or do away with containers (e.g. potted plant trays, old tires, and toys) in

your yard where water might collect.

• Clean out birdbaths and wading pools at least once a week.

• Get rid of standing water on tarps or flat roofs.

• Clean roof gutters and downspout screens.

Do not handle dead birds with your bare hands. Wear gloves and either throw the dead

bird away or bury it. Wash hands frequently with water and soap. (Sanitizing gel may

be substituted when hands are not visibly soiled.)

– Source: State Department of Health