By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Santa Cruz County said it has reported its first probable human case of West Nile virus of the season.
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The Santa Cruz County Health Services said the patient recovered and that the county is doing additional mosquito surveillance.
“Residents are encouraged to protect themselves from mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their homes to help prevent mosquito breeding,” the county said in a release.
The county said it is also doing trapping in the area where the patient lives.
West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, and most people who become infected do not develop symptoms.
Some of the symptoms include fever, headache or body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.
“In rare cases, West Nile virus can cause severe illness,” the county said. “Older adults and people with certain chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems may be at greater risk for severe illness.”
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The county said that dead birds can be a sign of West Nile virus in the area, and residents should report it to the SCCHS at 520-375-7900.
The county shared the following tips to reduce mosquito breeding and avoid getting sick.
- Use an EPA-registered mosquito repellent
- Wear long, loose-fitting shirts and pants when possible
- Avoid being outdoors from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active
- Use intact screens on windows and doors
- Dump or remove standing water around homes and properties
- Clean gutters and repair leaking outdoor faucets
- Cover containers and other items that can collect water
- Check your property for places where water can collect (gutters, containers, pools, tires)
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