LOCAL & STATE SITUATION
For the first time this season, West Nile virus has been confirmed in a mosquito sample in Mesa County. The Grand River Mosquito Control District collected the mosquitoes from the Fruita area the week of July 18-22. The type of mosquito that tested positive was identified as the Culex species, which can transmit West Nile virus to people.
West Nile virus is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. The first human case in Colorado in 2022 was detected last week in Delta County. In 2021, Colorado had 175 reported human cases of West Nile virus, including 11 deaths. Most human cases are reported in August and September.
PREVENTION
This is the time of year when mosquito activity is high in our region, so it’s critical for residents to take precautions. These include:
- Use an EPA-approved insect repellent effective against mosquitoes. Look for one that contains DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, 2-undecanone, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Dress in long sleeves and pants when in areas where mosquitoes are active.
- Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn; this is when mosquitoes are most active.
- Drain and remove sources of standing water on your property.
For updated information about mosquitoes in Mesa County, visit the Grand River Mosquito Control District’s website. 