The largest single outbreak in U.S. history of West Nile virus disease occurred in Arizona last summer, over 1,600 cases were reported. Why last year? A wetter-than-average monsoonal season likely contributed to the magnitude of the outbreak. The rise in cases may be a sign of what’s to come: As climate change brings more drought and pushes temperatures toward what is termed the ‘Goldilocks zone’ for mosquitoes, not too hot, not too cold. Most people infected with WNV develop only mild symptoms but some will develop a life-threatening illness that includes inflammation of the spinal cord or brain. Climate change may push the US further toward the ‘goldilocks’ temperature for west nile virus. Welcome to ‘MOSQUITO COAST’
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