A man in his 50s has died from West Nile virus, marking El Paso’s first death from the mosquito-borne illness in 2026.
The City of El Paso Department of Public Health confirmed the death in an Aug. 21 news release. The man had underlying health conditions, according to the city.
As of Aug. 21, El Paso has reported six West Nile virus cases and one death this year.
“The Severe Central Nervous System West Nile Virus disease is extremely dangerous and can lead to potential complications, disability or even death,” City-County Health Authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza said. “With the recent rain it is imperative that the public take precaution to decrease the risk of getting infected with WNV by practicing the four Ds to prevent mosquito bites.”
West Nile
virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes can become infected after feeding on birds carrying the virus.
Symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and swollen lymph nodes. About 8 in 10 people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms, according to health officials.
Health officials recommend residents follow the “Four Ds” to reduce the risk of mosquito bites:
- DEET: Use insect repellents containing DEET when outdoors.
- DRESS: Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks while outside.
- DUSK & DAWN: Take extra precautions during peak mosquito-biting hours, particularly from dusk to dawn, or consider limiting outdoor activities during those times.
- DRAIN: Remove standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes and birdbaths. After rain or lawn watering, residents should “tip and toss” any standing water around their homes.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on X, natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: City of El Paso confirms first West Nile death of 2026. How to stay safe
