First 2018 Human West Nile Virus Cases In Colorado: DPHE

DENVER, CO — The first two 2018 human cases of West Nile virus in have been reported, according to a press release from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. The two cases were in Weld and Delta counties, and officials are urging citizens to take steps to prevent mosquito bites.

“When the virus is present, people are at risk,” said Jennifer House, state public health veterinarian. “Use an effective insect repellent, wear protective clothing or stay indoors when mosquitoes are active, and mosquito-proof your home.” Most human West Nile virus cases are reported in August and September, the DPHE said.

The state will test mosquitos weekly for West Nile virus around the state to see where concentrations of the virus are. This can help pinpoint the highest-risk areas.

So far this year, researchers have found West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes in Adams, Boulder, Larimer and Weld counties.

Last year, 68 humans contracted the virus in Colorado, four of whom died.

The DPHE says most people infected with West Nile virus don't have symptoms, 20 percent have flu-like symptoms and under one percent "develop a serious, potentially deadly illness." This was the case in Weld County.

To protect yourself, here's what the DPHE recommends:

• Use insect repellents when you go outdoors. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products provide the best protection. Follow label instructions.
• Limit outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are most active.
• Wear protective clothing (long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks) in areas where mosquitoes are active. Spray clothes with insect repellent for extra protection.

To mosquito-proof your home:

• Drain standing water around your house often. Empty water from tires, cans, flowerpots, clogged gutters, rain barrels, birdbaths, toys and puddles.
• Install or repair screens on windows and doors.

You can find out more info on the DPHE's West Nile virus web page. They have mosquito trap results and human case numbers.

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