It is certainly the right conditions to spend time outdoors, particularly in the early morning or evening hours near dawn or dusk. These hours are also prime time for mosquito activity and the potential for West Nile virus to take hold.

This mosquito-borne virus was first detected in the United States in 1999 and in Arizona in 2003, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services. It is not known how West Nile virus was introduced into the United States, but it may have entered in an infected traveler, bird or mosquito. West Nile virus has been present in Africa, West and Central Asia and the Middle East for a long time.

West Nile virus primarily transmits between mosquitoes and birds. The virus can also cause disease in people, horses and other animals. Horses are susceptible to infection but a vaccine is available through veterinarians. Illness in dogs and cats is rare.

The majority of people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms or only mild illness. Most individuals who have symptoms will experience “flu-like” illness, including fever, headache, body aches, swollen glands and muscle weakness.

In some cases, West Nile virus can cause more serious conditions including encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (an inflammation of the linings of the brain and spinal cord). Signs of more serious disease can include high fever, headache, confusion, disorientation, seizures and coma. In 2005 an elderly male resident of Fountain Hills contracted West Nile and succumbed to the disease. Anyone who believes they may be infected with West Nile virus should contact their healthcare provider.

Precautions

There are several things that the public can do to protect themselves against West Nile virus, including:

*When outdoors wear a mosquito repellant (follow label instructions, especially for use on children).

*Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around property by removing standing water in potted plants, tires, buckets and other containers.

*Keep fountains and swimming pools properly operating and free from debris.

*Report stagnant water such as green pools to Maricopa County.

*Repair damaged window and door screens.

*When outdoors, wear long sleeves and long pants to prevent mosquito bites.

*Avoid outdoor activity before dawn and after dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

Maricopa County Vector Control is responsible for monitoring and spraying potential West Nile hazards. There are six traps located within Fountain Hills that county officials monitor.

Mosquitos in the traps are tested as carriers for West Nile and other potential diseases.

If it is deemed necessary the location is sprayed to rid the area of mosquitos.

During 2018, Maricopa County recorded 24 cases of West Nile. Through late May of 2019, just two cases have been confirmed.

Maricopa County has additional information available at its website at Maricopa.gov/1746/west-nile-virus.