Health officials warn of West Nile virus threat

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health reminds New Mexicans to take precautions against mosquito bites, which can cause West Nile virus.

“Infected mosquitoes can transmit several diseases to humans, including West Nile virus, which causes illness in humans, horses and birds,” said Erin Phipps, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) state public health veterinarian. “Peak time for West Nile in New Mexico is usually July and August.”

Though there are no reported cases of West Nile virus in humans in New Mexico this year, Phipps said recent rains have likely left standing water across the state, providing suitable habitats for mosquitoes to reproduce. New Mexico reported 27 cases of West Nile virus in humans in 2024.

The warning comes as the City of Albuquerque Environmental Health Department has detected West Nile virus positive mosquitoes through routine mosquito monitoring at locations throughout the city.

“Our focus remains on prevention methods to protect public health in relation to mosquitoes around the city,” said Paul Rogers, City of Albuquerque Environmental Health Department Director. “Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus will be around until there is a good hard frost in the area, and we urge people to continue to take precautions against mosquito bites throughout the rest of the season.” 

Common West Nile virus symptoms are fever, nausea, headache, and muscle aches. If someone has these symptoms, they should contact their health care provider. In rare cases, West Nile virus can cause meningitis or encephalitis.

To protect you and your family from West Nile virus infection: 

• Use insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing when you go outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 for use on skin, and permethrin for use on clothing. Follow label directions when using insect repellents. 
• Wear protective clothing such as loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks. 
• The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for mosquitoes. Take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing or avoid outdoor activities during these times. 
• Eliminate water-holding containers where mosquitoes lay their eggs, such as old tires, and regularly change the water in birdbaths, wading pools and pet water bowls. Make sure rain barrels are tightly screened. 
• Keep windows and doors closed if not screened. If you leave your house doors or windows open, make sure they have screens that fit tightly and have no holes.

For more information about West Nile virus, including fact sheets in English and Spanish, go to the West Nile virus section of our website. 

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Oficiales de salud advierten sobre la amenaza del virus del Nilo Occidental