Photo: wikipedia
West Nile Case Reported in El Paso Despite Cold Weather
The City of El Paso Department of Public Health announced today that a sixth person has been diagnosed with West Nile virus in the borderland.
The patient is a man in his 50’s who lives in the western portion of El Paso and is recovering.
“This is not the first time we see West Nile infections during the colder time of the year, but the case is rather unusual,” said Fernando Gonzalez, Lead Epidemiologist. “It’s important that we don’t assume mosquito activity ends when the weather gets cold. We know they are out there and we know that some of them are infected, and can spread the virus.”
This latest case has been added to the running list being compiled by the DPH (as shown below.)
Case | Sex | Age | Area of Residence |
1 | Male | 70s | Central El Paso |
2 | Male | 20s | Central El Paso |
3 | Male | 40s | San Elizario |
4 | Male | 30s | Lower Valley |
5 | Female | 70s | Upper Valley |
6 | Male | 50s | Westside |
The Department of Public Health continues to recommend mosquito bite prevention tips. To report standing water or other mosquito breeding sites, call 3-1-1. Please be sure to provide address or street names with cross streets when calling.