Colorado’s first human instances of West Nile virus this yr have been confirmed in two individuals who contracted the illness in Adams County, public well being officers mentioned Thursday.
These people seemingly contracted the virus from contaminated mosquitoes in late June, the Adams County Well being Division mentioned in a information launch. Whereas no mosquitoes have examined optimistic for West Nile in Adams County, neighboring counties have confirmed the virus’s presence.
Colorado’s West Nile season began early this yr, with mosquitoes testing optimistic for the virus in Denver, Boulder County and Weld County close to Greeley and Johnstown earlier this month.
Whereas West Nile might be deadly in uncommon instances, most individuals don’t present indicators of an infection. About 20% of individuals develop flu-like signs and fewer than 1% develop a severe, doubtlessly lethal sickness, Adams County officers mentioned.
Folks 60 years and older and with sure medical situations are at the next threat for severe sickness, and anybody who develops a extreme headache or turns into confused ought to see their well being care supplier.
The easiest way to forestall West Nile is to guard towards mosquito bites. Folks can take precautions like utilizing insect repellent, limiting time outdoor at daybreak and nightfall and carrying long-sleeved shirts and pants when close to mosquitoes, Adams County officers mentioned.
Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so emptying water from birdbaths, rain barrels, toys and flower pots at the least as soon as every week also can assist restrict the unfold.
The Adams County Well being Division is distributing free insect repellent at its Westminster clinic, 1401 W. 122nd Ave., and at group outreach occasions all through the summer time.
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