Health officials say symptoms of West Nile virus can appear three to 14 days after exposure.
WELD COUNTY, Colo. — Weld County health officials say mosquitoes in two areas of the county have tested positive for West Nile virus.
Weld County Public Health said the two communities where positive cases occurred are being tested regularly.
Officials said the areas where the mosquitoes were caught were in the Johnstown, Milliken and Prattville areas, and another area was in the Firestone, Dacono and Fort Lupton areas. None of the mosquitoes caught in the Greeley, Evans, Kersey and LaSalle areas tested positive for the virus.
> Video above: 9NEWS health expert Dr. Payal Kohli speaks about growing concerns over West Nile Virus infection.
Weld health officials said there have been no reported human cases of West Nile virus, but the population of mosquitoes that carry the virus is increasing.
“Warmer temperatures often create favorable conditions for Culex mosquitoes, which transmit the West Nile virus,” said Jason Chesher, director of the Weld County Health Department. “West Nile virus is present throughout the summer in Colorado, so residents need to be vigilant.”
Symptoms of West Nile virus usually appear between three days and two weeks after infection.
- heat
- headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle pain and weakness
- rash
Weld County Public Health urges people to seek medical help immediately if they experience symptoms.
Officials said most infected people show no symptoms, and fewer than 1% develop a severe, neuroinvasive disease that can be fatal.
Practicing the four “D’s” can help limit your exposure to mosquitoes that carry the virus.
- drain Drain standing water around your home weekly. Don’t forget to drain water from tires, cans, flower pots, clogged gutters, rainwater tanks, toys and puddles.
- Dusk and Dawn This is the time when mosquitoes are most active, so limit your outdoor activities during this time and take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
- DEET is an active ingredient in repellents. Other repellents containing picaridin, IR3535, lemon eucalyptus oil, and paramenthanediol are also effective against mosquitoes. Always follow product label directions carefully.
- dress Wear long sleeves, long pants, and a hat in areas with a lot of mosquitoes.
The first case of West Nile virus in Colorado It was confirmed last month.
last year, Colorado leads the nation For West Nile virus.
