Weld County mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus

Mosquitoes in two areas of Weld County have tested positive for West Nile virus, though no human cases have yet been reported in the county.

Mosquitoes are trapped weekly in three zones across Weld County and tested for the virus. Recently, mosquitos in zone one (near Greeley, Evans, Kersey and LaSalle) and zone two (near Johnstown, Milliken and Platteville) tested positive, according to a Weld County news release.

“The increasing hot weather often leads to favorable conditions for the Culex mosquito that carries West Nile virus,” Weld County Health Department Executive Director said in the release. “The public needs to be vigilant, because West Nile virus has a permanent summer presence in Colorado.”

Health officials expect human cases to increase as the hot weather continues throughout July and August, the release states. The first human case in Weld County last year was reported on July 18.

Symptoms can appear three to 14 days after an infection. While most people exhibit no symptoms, anyone experiencing fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches and weakness and rash should see a health care professional immediately, according to the release.

Health officials recommend following the four “D’s” to prevent mosquito bites:

• Drain standing water around your house, including from tires, cans, flowerpots, rain barrels, toys and clogged rain gutters.
• Dusk and dawn are when mosquitoes are most active. Limit outdoor activities and take precautions during dusk and dawn.
• Deet is an effective ingredient in repelling mosquitoes, though picaridin, IR3535, lemon oil, eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol also act as repellants.
• Dress in long sleeves, long pants and a hat where mosquitoes are active, the county said in the release.

For more information, including a map of mosquito zones and trapping and testing updates, go to Weld.gov/zoonosis.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get health news sent straight to your inbox.