West Nile Virus Confirmed in Fort Collins

Get out the bug spray, because the West Nile virus is confirmed in Fort Collins.

Larimer County Health & Environment announced in a press release on Tuesday that mosquitoes found in northeast and southeast Fort Collins tested positive for West Nile Virus for the first time in 2019. So did mosquitoes in Loveland.

No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Larimer County yet.

"Now that West Nile virus has been found in Larimer County, it is time to be proactive," said Larimer County environmental health director Shaun May in a press release.

"Make sure you are wearing insect repellent when mosquitoes are biting. Take the time to check your property and make sure you don’t have standing water that might allow mosquitoes to breed and contribute to the spread of West Nile virus.”

The first positive test for West Nile virus in Colorado came late last week in Pueblo County, according to a press release from the Pueblo Department of Public Health & Environment.

If you are bitten, symptoms will occur within 2-14 days. Many of those infected will not experience any symptoms, but if you do, they include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, rash, diarrhea, and fatigue.

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

To protect yourself from the West Nile virus, the Health Department recommends following The Four D's:

• DRAIN: Remove standing water in pools and ponds as they make excellent breeding sites for mosquitoes. Change the water in pet bowls, bird baths, and plants every week.
• DUSK AND DAWN: Avoid being outside during these times, when mosquitoes are most active.
• DEET: Use insect repellents such as Picaridin, IR3535, and the oil of lemon eucalyptus. Be sure to read the instruction label prior to application.
• DRESS: If you have to be outside during dusk or dawn, cover up with long sleeves, pants, shoes, and socks.

Additional information about the virus can be found at www.FightTheBiteColorado.com.