Two cases of West Nile in NM in 2010

SANTA FE (KRQE) - The New Mexico Health Department reported the first two human West Nile cases in New Mexico in 2010 and is encouraging New Mexicans to protect themselves against mosquitoes.

The first New Mexican to be diagnosed with West Nile in 2010 was a 67-year-old woman who was hospitalized for neurological symptoms. A 47-year-old woman from Doña Ana County tested positive for West Nile.

The symptoms of West Nile are fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches.

Paul Ettestad, the department's public health veterinarian, said people should protect themselves by using a repellent when they are outdoors, especially during the evening and early morning when mosquitoes are most active.

"Because of the large amounts of rainfall New Mexico received in late July and early August, mosquito populations are increasing and we should expect West Nile Virus activity throughout the state," Ettestad said.

To protect yourself from West Nile, you should:

• Use insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing when you go outdoors.
• Take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing, or avoid outdoor activities during dusk to dawn, peak biting times for mosquitoes.
• Empty or 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.
• Have screens on your windows and doors or keep them closed.
• Vaccinate your horses.

New Mexico typically sees most of its West Nile cases in August and September. There were eight human cases of West Nile each year in 2009 and 2008.