The first human case of West Nile Virus in a Denver resident has been confirmed by the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment.
The department is urging people to take caution, as most West Nile virus cases in the state are diagnosed in August and September. West Nile virus is typically spread to humans from the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquito season generally lasts from late-April until mid-October, or the first freeze in the fall.
Colorado’s first case of West Nile Virus this year was confirmed last month by in Arapahoe County. The Denver case was confirmed last week.
West Nile virus can impact us all, but those over 50 years old, or others with weakened immune systems, are typically at risk of developing serious illness, the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment said in a release.
Symptoms of the virus can include experiencing a fever, extreme fatigue, headache, body aches, and occasionally, skin rashes and swollen lymph nodes. Usually, symptoms appear three to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and are typically mild. Serious infections can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, and/or meningitis, loss of vision, paralysis, coma, tremors, convulsions, and death.
While there is no treatment, cure, or human vaccination for the virus, there are steps you can take.
The Denver Department of Public Health and Environment recommends stopping mosquitoes from laying eggs in or near water on your property. You can do this by emptying and scrubbing, turn over, cover, or throw out items that hold water, like tires, planters, toys, wheelbarrows, pools, birdbaths, flowerpots, or trash containers. It is recommended to do this once a week. It’s also important to check for water-holding containers, both inside and outside, and to not water your cement or street. Finally, consider ways to minimize overspray of irrigation to streets and gutters if you are planning on making landscaping decisions.
For pregnant women, it’s important to use insect repellents that are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency. These repellents are proven safe and effective, and can be used by everyone, including pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Other ways you can protect yourself from West Nile Virus include avoiding activity outdoors at dusk and dawn, wearing loose-fitting, long sleeved shirts and pants, and using screens on windows and doors.
Last year, Colorado experienced the worst West Nile Virus outbreak in the United States. Data from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment shows that 50 people who became ill with the virus in Colorado died in 2023. Numerous others also were hospitalized.
If you become infected with West Nile virus or experience symptoms, it’s important to consult with a doctor. Medical professionals can help you feel better and recover quicker.
