ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.: State and local health officials say a species of mosquito capable of transmitting Zika and other viruses has been found along the Rio Grande in the Albuquerque area.
The Aedes aegypti mosquitoes also have been found in more than a dozen counties in the southern half of New Mexico.
Albuquerque’s Environmental Health Department has been monitoring mosquito populations for decades, and officials say this is the first time the agency has collected this species.
The department’s deputy director, Mark DiMenna, says early detection gives officials the best possible opportunity to track and prevent illness.
There has been no local transmission of Zika, dengue or chikungunya virus in New Mexico and although the mosquitoes can be found in several counties in the state, health officials say the risk remains low for New Mexicans. AP
Thank You For Your Vote!
Sorry You have Already Voted!
