Maricopa County reports first West Nile-positive mosquito of 2016
May 6, 2016, 1:50 PM
PHOENIX — A mosquito has tested positive for West Nile virus in Maricopa County for the first time in 2016, officials said Friday.
The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department said the mosquito was caught in one of its traps. It did not give a specific location.
The department also said it has caught an increased number of mosquitoes in recent weeks.
While West Nile has yet to be confirmed in a person this year, the disease can be passed on from mosquitoes to humans.
The department said Maricopa County residents can take steps to prevent mosquitoes from breeding, which will hopefully result in a decline of West Nile in humans:
- Eliminate mosquito breeding sites from the home by removing standing water in pools, bird baths, potted plants and other areas
- Wipe down anything that may have standing water inside it
- Remove unnecessary clutter
- Repair screens so mosquitoes cannot get inside
It is also recommended that people wear light-colored clothing with long sleeves and pants and to use insect repellent while outdoors.
