[ad_1]
Maricopa County, Arizona is seeing an upsurge in mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus and authorities are urging residents to deprive the critters of their water source.
The county, home to Phoenix, has recorded more than 200 human cases and 12 deaths as of September 30, according to environmental services statistics. In contrast, the county recorded just three cases last year, with just one death.
WNV is spread primarily through mosquito bites.
(iStock)
One of those who died this year in Maricopa County is Nathan Ryberg, a former Tempe Police Detective. Ryberg’s death was confirmed on Thursday, September 23, less than two weeks after he reportedly fell into a coma while battling the virus.
SEVERAL STATES ARE WARNING OF THE RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS DURING A PEAK PERIOD
West Nile virus is a disease caused by a virus that is spread primarily through mosquito bites. According to the Maricopa County Environmental Services, there are rare cases where WNV is spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or from mother to baby. Health experts say only 1 in 5 infected people will develop symptoms.
County officials are urging residents to take steps to deprive mosquitoes of water, which is necessary at every step of the mosquito breeding process. This can be done by emptying, draining, or covering anything that may have water in it.
County officials are spraying – or “misting” – areas that have reported high mosquito presence. A county website shows which areas have been fogged the most in recent weeks.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Last year marked one of the driest monsoon seasons on record. Phoenix recorded nearly 4 inches of rain during this year’s monsoon.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
[ad_2]
Source link