Maricopa County Department of Public Health has confirmed the first West Nile virus-related death of the season. The individual was an older adult with underlying health conditions.
“This case is a tragic reminder that West Nile virus can cause severe illness and even death,” said Melissa Kretschmer, epidemiology supervisor for the Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases program at MCDPH. “As mosquito activity increases across Maricopa County, we encourage residents to take prevention seriously by using insect repellent, eliminating standing water around their homes, and protecting themselves from mosquito bites whenever they spend time outdoors.”
West Nile virus is typically spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected don’t show symptoms, but about 1 in 5 may develop a flu-like illness with fever, headache, and body aches. In rare cases—about 1 in 150—the virus can cause severe complications like encephalitis or meningitis, which might lead to paralysis, long-term disability, or death. Older adults, people with underlying health conditions, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness.
A total of 17 human cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed in Maricopa County so far this year, compared with four cases reported during the same period last year.
MCDPH works closely with healthcare providers, Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD), and state and federal partners to maintain strong surveillance for both humans and mosquitoes and to implement prevention strategies. MCESD conducts a proactive and aggressive year-round mosquito surveillance and abatement program.
“Even an overturned bottle cap can hold enough water for mosquitoes to breed,” said Kretschmer. “It’s important that we remove these breeding sources that can form after rain or watering plants.”
Public health officials urge all residents and visitors to remember the 4Rs (Repel, Remove, Repair, Remind) to prevent mosquito-borne diseases:
- Repel: Use EPA-registered insect repellents (e.g., those containing DEET) when outdoors.
- Remove: Get rid of standing water around your home and yard to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
- Repair: Patch up or replace damaged window and door screens.
- Remind: Educate your friends, family, and neighbors about these safety measures.
Communities are encouraged to highlight the importance of mosquito control and prevention during National Mosquito Awareness Week June 21-27. For more information on mosquito-borne illnesses in Maricopa County, go to maricopa.gov/FightTheBite or maricopa.gov/NoSeDejePicar.
###
Media contact: Sonia Singh, Sonia.singh@maricopa.gov, 602-679-3098
