Larimer County mosquito sample tests positive for West Nile Virus
The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment is letting the public know that a sample of mosquitoes in Larimer County tested positive for West Nile virus. The mosquitoes were found in the northeast area of Fort Collins. So far this year, one human case of West Nile virus has been reported in Larimer County.
West Nile virus spreads through the bites of infected mosquitoes and can pose serious health risks. While most people infected with West Nile virus do not experience symptoms, about 1 in 5 may develop flu-like symptoms including fever, headaches, body aches, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. About 1 in 150 people who are infected develop more severe illness with symptoms including high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis.
Even if you don’t get bitten by mosquitoes often, people ages 55 and older are at higher risk for serious symptoms if they get West Nile virus. People with health conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and hypertension and who have had organ transplants or are taking medications that suppress the immune system are also at higher risk.
"We want everyone to enjoy everything Larimer County has to offer this summer while staying healthy," said Tom Gonzales, Executive Director for the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment. "The recent rain has been welcome, but it also creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Taking simple precautions to avoid mosquito bites and reducing standing water around your home can go a long way in lowering the risk of West Nile virus so everyone can enjoy the outdoors."
The Health Department urges all residents to adopt effective protective measures as part of their summer routine:
- Regularly use an EPA-registered insect repellent.
- Wear loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and pants for long walks, gardening, and other times outside.
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak biting times around dawn and dusk.
Mosquito sampling to monitor for West Nile virus risk began the first week in June in Larimer County. With peak West Nile virus season generally lasting from July through August, the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment continues to closely monitor West Nile prevalence in the community through partnerships with our cities and towns, a mosquito abatement company (Vector Disease Control International), and Colorado State University to monitor and assess the risk to Larimer County residents.
View Larimer County’s West Nile virus Surveillance Dashboard to stay informed about local mosquito activity. Find more information and tips for protecting yourself at www.larimer.gov/westnile.
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