NEWS
New Mexico reports first West Nile virus cases of 2026
A Bernalillo County woman in her 70s is hospitalized and an Otero County man is recovering at home
A Bernalillo County woman and an Otero County man are the first people in the state to test positive for West Nile virus this year, the New Mexico Department of Health reported Friday.
The woman, in her 70s, is currently hospitalized, while the man, in his 30s, is recovering at home.
鈥淚t is important to protect yourselves from mosquito bites, particularly during summer months,鈥� Dr. Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian for the NMDOH, said in a news release.
West Nile virus is a potentially deadly mosquito-borne virus. There are no medications to treat it or vaccines to prevent infections in humans.
Last month, the Department of Health warned residents to take precautions after monitoring along the Rio Grande by the city of Albuquerque and Bernalillo County found mosquitoes that tested positive for the virus.
鈥淎s we enter the monsoon season, we are asking residents to check their yards and neighborhoods for standing water that could become a mosquito breeding source,鈥� said Nick Pederson, Urban Biology Division manager with the city.
Over the last five years, New Mexico has averaged 41 cases per year of West Nile virus. There were 52 human cases in New Mexico in 2025.
According to the NMDOH, most people infected with the virus experience either no symptoms or very mild illness. Approximately 1% develop a more severe infection. Signs and symptoms can include fever, headache, fatigue and nausea.
People can reduce their chances of contracting West Nile by using an approved insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and contacting a healthcare provider if they show symptoms.
Karmina Conde is a news reporter for the Journal. You can reach her at kconderuiz@abqjournal.com
