Ways to Keep Safe During Mosquito Season

 

Stay Safe During Mosquito Season

SRPMIC Environmental Health continues to monitor and test mosquitoes for diseases such as West Nile Virus (WNV) and St. Louis Encephalitis. Help us keep the Community safe with these important prevention tips and information.

What Is West Nile Virus (WNV)?

West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne disease that first appeared in Uganda in 1937 and now affects many regions, including Arizona. The virus is most active during summer and early fall.

How It Spreads

WNV spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito. These mosquitoes become infected after feeding on birds carrying the virus and can then pass it to humans, pets, and other animals.

Symptoms to Watch For

• Most people (4 in 5) infected show no symptoms.
• Some may experience:
  • Fever
  • Headache, joint or body aches
  • Rash, nausea, vomiting
• Rare but severe symptoms include:
  • High fever, confusion
  • Neck stiffness
  • Neurological conditions (like meningitis or encephalitis)

Seek medical attention immediately if you or a loved one experience severe symptoms.

WNV and Pets

Dogs and cats can get WNV, though it’s rare. Watch for:

• Lethargy or tremors
• Fever or difficulty walking

Consult your veterinarian if symptoms appear.

How to Protect Yourself & Pets

• Use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
• Wear long sleeves & pants, especially at dawn and dusk
• Remove standing water (tires, pots, gutters, birdbaths)
• Use mosquito netting over pet areas
• Close windows/doors or use screens

The Community also reduces risk through mosquito trapping, testing, and public area maintenance.

📎 View the Mosquito Prevention Flyer (attached) for tips.
📞 Questions? Contact SRP-MIC Environmental Health at
480-362-2603 | Environmental.Health@srpmic-nsn.gov
🌐 www.srpmic-nsn.gov