Maricopa County health officials have confirmed the first West Nile-related death this season.
The deceased was an older adult with underlying health concerns, according to a statement from the county Department of Public Health.
"This tragic loss is a reminder that West Nile virus can be serious, especially for older adults and those with existing health conditions," said Dr. Nick Staab, chief medical officer for MCDPH. “Monsoon season brings much-needed rain, but it also creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed.”
County residents are advised to use insect repellent and drain standing water — where mosquitoes commonly breed — on their property.
The county has confirmed 17 cases of West Nile Virus so far this year. West Nile Virus is typically spread through mosquito bites, and in Arizona, it’s peak season for the spread of mosquito-borne viruses, which runs from May through October.
For more information about precautions to avoid mosquito bites, go to maricopa.gov/FightTheBite.
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