PHOENIX — The Maricopa County Department of Public Health says it has recorded the first deaths involving West Nile virus this season.

Health officials announced the first death on June 16, saying West Nile claimed the life of an “older adult with underlying health conditions.”

By June 29, there were four confirmed deaths from the virus and 29 confirmed or suspected cases in the county. Last year, in the same time period, there had been 13 cases and one death. Fifty-six cases in total were reported in 2025.

Further details about this year's victims were not immediately available.

Officials say older adults, people with underlying health conditions, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of more severe infections.

Public health officials urge all residents and visitors to remember the "4 Rs" to prevent mosquito-borne diseases, like WNV:

• Repel: Use EPA-registered insect repellents (e.g., those containing DEET) when outdoors.
• Remove: Get rid of standing water around your home and yard to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
• Repair: Patch up or replace damaged window and door screens.
• Remind: Educate your friends, family, and neighbors about these safety measures.