Health Department: Two Cases of West Nile Virus Detected in Cochise County

Cochise County Health and Social Services released information late last week about a growing concern about the spread of a mosquito-borne illness. With all the rain Cochise County has received this summer, mosquitoes are more active than usual, and this has health officials concerned.

mountain during sunset photography

Arizona’s state health laboratory confirmed two human cases of West Nile virus and believes a third case is probable in the Sierra Vista area. The county issued the notice September 10th. They’re urging county residents to take precautions against mosquitoes.

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How West Nile Virus Spreads

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), West Nile virus is primarily transmitted when an infected Culex mosquito bites a person.

a close up of a mosquito on a human's skin

Mosquitoes pick up the virus by feeding on infected birds. With the rise in mosquitoes this year, residents in our county face increased risk. The good news, according to the CDC, is that people don’t typically spread West Nile to one another through casual contact, coughing, or touching.

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Who Is Most At Risk

Humans can become infected, and the risk of serious illness increases with age and in people with compromised immune systems. People with certain chronic conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney disease, as well as those with weakened immune systems, are also more vulnerable to severe disease.

Dogs can become infected, but only rarely develop fever, weakness, or neurological symptoms.

a herd of horses standing on top of a grass covered field

Horses are much more susceptible to West Nile Virus, which can cause neurological disease, including muscle weakness, stumbling, tremors, and difficulty standing, so vaccination is recommended.

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Symptoms And Treatment

Most people who become infected with West Nile have no symptoms. If signs of infection do occur, look for fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash.

Severe cases can affect the nervous system and cause confusion, muscle weakness, paralysis, coma, or death. If symptoms develop, seek immediate medical attention.

a woman sitting on a couch holding a pen and paper

There is no specific medicine or human vaccine for West Nile. Mild cases are generally treated with rest, fluids, and symptom medication, while severe cases may require hospitalization and supportive care.

What To Do If You Feel Sick

If you develop symptoms after possible mosquito exposure, contact a healthcare provider for West Nile Virus testing. If you experience any symptoms, don’t wait, because a delay can make the illness harder to treat.

person doing hand sign during daytime

You can help reduce the mosquito population and avoid infection by keeping mosquitoes away and making it harder for them to breed. When you’re outside, use insect repellent, especially one containing DEET; wear long sleeves and pants; eliminate standing water; and keep yards and swimming pools well maintained.