New Mexico
Protecting yourself from mosquitoes and West Nile virus
Last week, the first New Mexico case of West Nile virus of the year was reported. So what can you do to protect yourself and others?
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — It’s hard to avoid those pesky mosquitoes and it seems like there’s more of them this year.
Monsoon and mosquito breeding seasons are in full swing so you’ll want to keep that bug spray on hand.
New Mexico health leaders are also ramping up warnings after confirming the state’s first West Nile virus case of the year earlier this month. Most people who get the virus are asymptomatic and 10% of people will develop West Nile fever – but they’re worried about those worst case scenarios.
“About one percent of the West Nile virus infections are what we call neuroinvasive. So they attack the nervous system and can cause very very severe and even fatal illnesses among these people,” said Erin Phillips, of NMHealth.
Symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, head and body aches and disorientation. Leaders say the best way to reduce the risk of that virus is to eliminate the mosquitoes around you. Avoid standing water, like puddles. Also, citronella candles outside help. Make sure you wear EPA-registered mosquito repellant and long-sleeved clothing or even permethrin-treated clothing.
Also, make sure you close your windows or remove any trash or debris that may collect water.
MORE: NMHealth confirms first West Nile virus case of 2024
SANTA FE, N.M. – Santa Fe County and Edgewood approved a new agreement and ordinance that secures ongoing fire and EMS services for Edgewood residents.
According to a joint announcement from the Town of Edgewood and Santa Fe County on June 19, the two governments negotiated and adopted a new Joint Powers Agreement and ordinance to keep the Santa Fe County Fire Department serving the town.
County and town representatives drafted the agreement together. The town adopted the ordinance unanimously at a special meeting on June 16, putting an end to weeks of uncertainty.
Santa Fe County District 3 Commissioner Camilla Bustamante said, “I believe we are all relieved to know that the people of Edgewood will continue to have the fire and EMS services necessary to protect their homes, their families, and their community. This community deserves nothing less.”
The announcement said the ordinance takes effect five days after final publication. The statement also said no further action or approval is needed to guarantee continued fire suppression, fire prevention, and EMS services for Edgewood residents.
Both governments noted the agreement will continue indefinitely unless either side ends it with five years’ notice.
New Mexico leaders are backing a bipartisan bill after 12 confirmed U.S. screwworm cases, including one case in a Lea County dog.
SANTA FE, N.M. – New Mexico leaders are backing a bipartisan bill after 12 confirmed U.S. screwworm cases, including one case in a Lea County dog.
New Mexico State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Holeck said the parasite has spread to New Mexico, though officials say they have not found any human cases.
“This is also not a political issue this is a nationwide issue that we all need to address because it affects all warm blooded animals including humans,” Holeck said.
U.S. Reps. Gabe Vasquez and Teresa Leger Fernandez support the Protect America’s Herds Act.
The bill would create a grant program to train people to identify, treat, prevent and report screwworm. It would also support more livestock inspections and education for ranchers.
Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez said she heard concerns from tribal leaders about the cost of protecting cattle herds.
“I spoke with one of our tribal leaders today and they have cattle operation and they’re worried, and they’re talking about how much more money they’re having to pay to go make sure they check on their herds and there are extra costs,” Leger Fernandez said.
Funding would prioritize states and tribal communities most at risk for screwworm outbreaks.
State health officials said screwworm is not a food safety issue. They also said ranchers should stay alert but not alarmed.
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