EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of El Paso’s Department of Public Health has confirmed the first case of Neuroinvasive West Nile Virus this year in the city.
The City says a man in his 80s who lives in the Upper Valley is currently hospitalized with a severe form of the virus that has affected his nervous system.
In 2024, El Paso reported two cases of Neuroinvasive West Nile Virus cases, one of which resulted in death, and the other person required hospitalization.
“West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes, which become carriers after feeding on infected birds. Symptoms of WNV include fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and swollen lymph nodes.”
City of El Paso
Most people infected with the virus will not develop any symptoms. However, one in five people will develop West Nile fever, which is a mild illness consisting of fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, or rash.
Severe cases may progress to West Nile Neuroinvasive disease, which causes brain inflammation, fever, and neurological symptoms. About one in 150 infections leads to severe illness, and about one in 10 severe cases are fatal, the City said.
Another mosquito-borne illness that’s been found in El Paso is St. Louis Encephalitis, which also causes brain inflammation. While most infections are asymptomatic, severe cases can involve fever, confusion, seizures, or death, particularly in older adults, the City said.
There is no vaccine or specific treatment for the virus, making prevention essential. As of September, mosquitoes in ZIP codes 79932 and 79936 have tested positive for West Nile Virus and St. Louis Encephalitis.
The City has also provided some ways to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses by doing the following:
- DEET – Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, IR3535, or 2-undecanone when outdoors. Always follow label instructions for safe and effective use.
- DRESS – Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when possible. Mosquitoes can bite through thin clothing, so apply repellent to clothes as well.
- DUSK and DAWN – Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus are most active from dusk to dawn. Avoid outdoor activities during these hours when possible.
- DRAIN – Eliminate standing water around your home, including in flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, and birdbaths. Refresh pet water bowls daily.
Residents are encouraged to mosquito-proof their homes by installing or repairing window and door screens.
Standing water or mosquito breeding sites can be reported by calling (915) 212-6000 or dialing 311.
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