Second Death in Colorado
Mesa County announced its second death (2nd death in Colorado) this
week. A 78-year-old woman from Grand Junction died of
meningoencephalitis from West Nile virus. As of August 20, 88 of the
148 documented cases of West Nile Virus in Colorado are from Mesa
County. Larimer County has reported twelve cases, followed by Boulder
County with ten.
Cases are continuing to be reported in Colorado and mosquitoes are
still active; thus, protecting yourself from mosquito bites is very
important. Using personal protection, such as wearing mosquito
repellent containing DEET or 2% soybean oil, is crucial until the end
of the mosquito season, which is typically by October or after the
first freeze.
Remember the 4 D's, which are as follows:
- DEET – use DEET enhanced insect repellant.
- Dress – dress in long sleeves and pants.
- Dusk to Dawn – avoid the outdoors from dusk until dawn.
- Drain – drain standing water outside your home.
The symptoms of West Nile virus begin 3 to 14 days after a mosquito
bite. Symptoms may include fever, rash, head and body aches, and
extreme fatigue. More severe symptoms are paralysis, meningitis,
encephalitis, and vision loss.
For more information about West Nile virus, mosquito activity in
Boulder County, or steps to take to protect yourself and loved ones:
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