First case of West Nile virus reported in Pima County

West Nile virus has likely returned to Pima County, health officials said.

A “probable” case of the virus was encountered, Pima County Health Department officials said Tuesday, the first of what they expect to be an active mosquito season.

West Nile virus is usually spread through a bite by an infected mosquito. Monsoon storms and heavy rainfall can often leave standing water, where mosquitos lay eggs.

The county’s came after the National Weather Service office in Tucson said the Tucson area had seen record rainfall from the start of the annual summer monsoon weather on Monday.

Climate experts told the Arizona Mirror that a strong El Niño cycle this year will likely cause additional flooding.

“West Nile virus is the leading cause of disease spread by mosquitoes in the United States. While most infections are mild, they can be severe for some individuals” said Dr. Theresa Cullen, Pima County Public Health Director, in a news release.

“The best way to avoid the virus is to take precautions and avoid getting bit by a mosquito.”

Though about 80 percent of people bitten don’t experience symptoms, officials said, the rest can develop “flu-like” symptoms that include fever, headache and body aches.

In less than one percent of cases, West Nile virus can cause long-term health complications such as paralysis or death.

Health officials in Maricopa County said Tuesday they had confirmed the first death from the virus in their area. According to the Maricopa website, at least 17 people there have been infected this year.

There have been 28 West Nile virus cases throughout the country the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed.

In September, one person in Pima County also died from West Nile virus. Officials identified that person as an older adult with “underlying health conditions.”

Elderly adults and those with pre-existing health issues or weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable.

County health officials urged anyone with those symptoms, particularly after mosquito exposure, to contact a doctor. They also encouraged doctors to consider the virus when making a diagnosis.

Residents with concerns about standing water or mosquito breeding sites can fill out an online form on the health department’s webpage or call 520-724-7908.

Health officials urged anyone with questions about reporting human disease to call 520-724-7797.