ACHD reports first death of the season from West Nile virus

Adams County Health Department (ACHD) officials confirmed the first death from West Nile virus, an adult resident, within the county this year.

West Nile virus is spread to people through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Most infected with the virus do not have symptoms. However, one in five could develop flu-like symptoms, which typically begin two to 14 days after exposure. Serious, potentially deadly neurologic illness occurs in fewer than one in 100 infected people.

Data from mosquito testing throughout Adams County indicates very high numbers of mosquitoes, including the Culex mosquito, which carries West Nile virus and spreads it to people. These high counts are related to the wet spring and early summer in the Denver metropolitan area.

As of Aug. 30, 2023, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) reports 193 human West Nile virus cases and 13 deaths in Colorado.

“In Adams County, 19 West Nile virus cases have been reported since July with most cases reported in August. We expect many more cases will occur in the peak months of September and October. Statewide, there are over seven times as many West Nile virus cases being reported in August as compared to the previous five-year average. We consider the risk of being exposed to West Nile virus to be present anywhere in Adams County,” said Dr. Bernadette Albanese, Medical Officer at Adams County Health Department.

ACHD strongly urges all residents to take measures to safeguard their health by protecting themselves from mosquito bites. People 60 years and older and those with certain medical conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease are at greater risk of serious illness.

ACHD encourages all residents to protect themselves and others by:

• Trying to limit time spent outdoors during dawn and dusk when Culex mosquitoes are known to bite.
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants.
• Covering strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
• Using an EPA-registered insect repellent, such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus and following the label instructions for use.
• Using and maintaining screens on windows and doors.
• Frequently draining standing water from areas around the house, such as bird baths, portable pools, tires, planter saucers, buckets, pet water dishes, and children’s swimming pools. Mosquitoes can lay eggs and grow in standing water.
• If there is standing water near your home that cannot be drained, such as ponds or ditches, these areas can be treated with larvicide “doughnuts,” which are sold at hardware stores.

Helpful information to address concerns about mosquitoes or standing water around your home can be found on the Adams County website.

For more information on West Nile virus or other health issues, please visit the ACHD website or call 303.220.9200.
Source: Adams County Health Department/ACHD