Arizona secures $800,000 to fight West Nile virus

Arizona has secured an additional $800,000 in federal funds to bolster the state’s effort to fight West Nile Virus this year, Arizona Department of Health Services Director Susan Gerard announced this week.

The Department of Health sought the funding from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to address the public health issue. Last year, Arizona was at the epicenter of the nation’s West Nile outbreak, with 391 human cases and 16 deaths.

“Governor Napolitano and I are committed to protecting the public from this threat,” Gerard said. “This funding will help state and local health agencies take an aggressive approach to fighting West Nile.”

The money will enhance the state’s laboratory testing capacity, bolster local mosquito prevention and control efforts, and increase surveillance activities across the state. Funds also will be used for radio public service announcements urging Arizonans to “fight the bite.”

“With the upcoming three-day weekend, many Arizonans will be spending time outdoors,” Gerard said. “While Arizonans should continue to enjoy our wonderful lifestyle, they should also take a few simple steps to avoid exposure to mosquitoes.”

This year, West Nile Virus has been detected in Maricopa, Pinal, and Pima counties. One horse case has been reported, but no human cases have been identified. The early detection of the virus, plus a rainy spring and the onslaught of hot weather, indicates that Arizona could face a statewide threat in 2005.

Gerard asked residents to help identify and report abandoned or neglected swimming pools – and other mosquito breeding sources – to local health departments.

“The very best breeding grounds for mosquitoes might be our own backyards,” Gerard said. “We can all work together to get rid of these breeding grounds.”

http://www.azdhs.gov/