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Health Department Trying To Prevent The Spread Of West Nile
Health Department Trying To Prevent The Spread Of West Nile 08/30/12
Robert Guaderrama
rguaderrama@cbs7.com
August 30, 2012
MIDLAND, TX – West Nile Virus has claimed another life in the Permian Basin. Midland Memorial Hospital confirms a Midland County resident has died from the virus. Health officials expect the situation to get worse and they are on high alert, working to keep residents safe. Midland Health Department officials tell us we haven't even entered the peak season for mosquitoes and they are out trying to be proactive in preventing West Nile from spreading.
"Really, this is just the beginning to be honest with you," said Celestino Garcia, Midland Health Department Manager.
Another death due to West Nile has Midlanders on edge. According to the Midland Department Manager, Sal Garcia, the worst is yet to come, which is why the Department is out tackling West Nile.
"We're fogging our community particularly Scharbuer Draw and other draws that may collect water, my team is on the field and we're doing the best that we can," said Garcia.
Garcia has even pulled manpower from other areas in his department to help with the cause.
"I’ve taken them away from other duties to larvacide the draws because we need people to throw the larvacide and that takes time," said Garcia.
Some Midlanders say they aren't too concerned.
"That may be why I’m not real worried because I haven't been bitten or my son and I haven't seen a lot of mosquito's and I have a pool," said Keeli Bryant, Midlander.
But others are shocked by yesterday's death and worried for their health.
"I am for myself and my kids, it's horrible that we have a disease like that and people are dying," said Jimmy Morrison, Midlander.
Health Department officials say they are out in full force but they can't do it alone.
"We also need some help from our citizens get some repellant, get something for your yard to help us and help them and their family and neighborhood," said Garcia.
Health Department officials want to remind you that those most at risk of West Nile complications are infants, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. 80 percent of people who contract the virus will not even show symptoms.