Four West Nile Cases Confirmed in El Paso: What to Know

Posted by Mosquito Squad Plus

August 19, 2026

Four West Nile Cases Confirmed in El Paso: What to Know

An important reminder that mosquito season in El Paso deserves attention in 2026, even in our desert climate.

On the heels of summer rainfall and a marked increase in mosquito activity, the City of El Paso Department of Health has confirmed four severe cases of West Nile virus, as of July 24, 2026.

This is not a message of panic or notice to stop using your yard. It’s simply to ensure that residents understand how West Nile virus spreads, so that they may take precautions and make practical steps to reduce mosquito bites around their homes.

About West Nile Virus Transmission

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, who picked up the virus after feeding on infected birds. An infected mosquito needs to only bite once to transmit the infection to humans or animals. That said, it’s important to note that not every mosquito carries WNV, nor can it spread through casual contact between people.

Most who become infected with West Nile virus never develop symptoms. Approximately one of every five people infected may experience symptoms, which can include fever, head and body aches, joint pain, nausea, or a rash.

About one of every 150 infected people will develop a severe WNV illness affecting the brain or nervous system.

As with many viral infections, older adults and people with underlying health conditions are more vulnerable to severe illness through WNV infection. But anyone experiencing concerning symptoms after known mosquito exposure should seek medical attention at once.

Are Mosquito Populations in El Paso Increasing?

Summer rain throughout El Paso doesn’t have to result in floodwater in order to produce spikes in mosquito populations. In fact, stagnant water to support mosquito reproduction can be left behind in surprisingly small spaces. Think plant saucers and pet bowls.

The reason we see increased mosquito populations during certain times of the year is because the environment supports their reproduction and survival. And populations can grow quickly after rainfall, with some species only requiring a few days to develop from eggs to adults. Homes with irrigation or properties that are near canals often experience persistent mosquito activity between storms.

Regular property checks and yard maintenance are smart practice, especially in summer and early fall.

Reduce Mosquito Bites by Reducing Mosquitoes

The El Paso Department of Public Health urges residents to follow their Four Ds to reduce the risk of mosquito bites, including:

DEET: Use an EPA-registered mosquito repellent.
Dress: Wear long sleeves, long pants, and materials that mosquitoes can’t go beneath or bite through.
Dusk and Dawn: Be extra cautious during these hours, as this is when most mosquito species are most active.
Drain: Eliminate standing water from containers (even small ones) around your property. Change (or agitate) water in outdoor pet bowls or water features, such as birdbaths.

Keep your indoor areas safer by ensuring window screens are installed and intact. Maintain gutters and have irrigation inspected regularly – and repaired if necessary.

Make professional El Paso mosquito control a part of your layered mosquito protection strategy. In addition to eliminating mosquitoes that are already buzzing, Mosquito Squad Plus of El Paso also targets mosquito resting areas throughout your property.

What’s more, our highly trained and experienced mosquito control technicians can help identify conditions around your home or business that might be contributing to increased mosquito activity.

Where Do We Offer Mosquito Control Services?

Mosquito Squad Plus is much more than just an El Paso mosquito control company. We proudly serve the following areas and beyond with highly effective pest control solutions, including El Paso rodent control: