West Nile Virus

Summer is here and that means that soon mosquitos will be out in full force. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has begun its state-wide surveillance program for mosquito-borne viruses. Mosquitoes are collected to determine abundance, and some are tested for the presence of West Nile Virus.

Tips for decreasing exposure to mosquitoes:

  • Limit outside activity around dawn and dusk (when mosquitoes feed)
  • Apply insect repellant
  • Try to eliminate standing water on your property, and change water in birdbaths or wading pools at least once a week

More facts and tips are available in a brochure from the CDPHE.

If you are curious about how many human cases were found last year, and the results of animal testing and surveillance, the information can be found on the CDPHE website.

You can also call the Colorado West Nile Virus Hotline: 1-877-462-2911

Additional information can be found on the “Fight the Bite” website from the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Samantha Hager
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