West Nile confirmed in Boulder County mosquitoes

DENVER ( KDVR ) — For the first time this year, the West Nile virus has been confirmed in Boulder County mosquitoes.

Boulder County Public Health said the positive mosquitoes were collected from a Longmont trap on July 15. At this time, the department said the virus has not been detected in other parts of the county.

“We are very happy to see lower overall numbers this season,” said Lane Drager, Boulder County Public Health Consumer Protection Program coordinator. “However, as we get further into the summer, we are seeing the normal rise in culex populations. Culex are the mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus to humans.  So now is the time to take precautions and to protect yourself, your family and your community from West Nile virus.”

Humans can be infected with West Nile through a bite from an infected mosquito. While most cases of the virus are mild, Boulder County said the serious infections can cause inflammation of the brain, meningitis, loss of vision, paralysis and even death.

Those who contract West Nile usually show symptoms of a fever, fatigue, a headache, body aches and swollen lymph nodes. Boulder County Public Health said symptoms can appear three to 14 days after being bitten.

There is no treatment, cure or vaccination for West Nile.

How to stay safe this summer

Boulder County Public Health provided the following tips on how to deter mosquitoes.

• Use DEET-enhanced insect repellent or alternative
• Dress in long sleeves and pants
• Avoid the outdoors from dusk until dawn
• Drain standing water outside your home

Mosquito season usually runs until mid-October.

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