West Nile Virus is spreading across Colorado.
Mosquito testing in Weld County has found four areas with infected mosquitoes -- Greeley/Evans, LaSalle, Kersey and the Idaho Creek of Longmont, according to the Weld County Health Department.
“These results show WNV is now in Weld County for the remainder of the summer. So it’s a good idea to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites," said Deb Adamson, Environmental Health Supervisor at the Weld County Health Department.
As of July 13, there have been three human case of West Nile virus reported in Colorado in Bent County, Douglas County and Larimer County, according to Boulder County Public Health.
Health officials recommend following the four “D’s” to preventing mosquito bites:
- Use DEET-enhanced insect repellent or alternative
- DRESS in long sleeves and pants
- Avoid the outdoors at DUSK and DAWN
- DRAIN standing water outside your home including tires, cans, flowerpots, clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, toys and puddles.
Initial symptoms of West Nile Virus include fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, muscle aches and weakness and rash, officials said.
In 2015, there were 108 cases of West Nile Virus in Colorado. Three of those victims died, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
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