DENVER, Colorado – The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) confirmed the first human death from West Nile virus in the state this year, in Weld County. During this season, 12 human cases have been confirmed in eight counties, a significant increase compared to the three cases reported last week.
West Nile virus has also been detected in mosquitoes in eight of the 11 counties tested this season, including Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Delta, Denver, Larimer, Pueblo and Weld.
This rise in cases follows reports of unusually high levels of infection in Culex mosquitoes, the carriers of the virus. The abundance of Culex mosquitoes is believed to be due to unusual weather conditions this winter and spring.
Dr. Rachel Herlihy, CDPHE State Epidemiologist, expressed concern about unusual trends in West Nile virus monitoring data. The large number of infected mosquitoes this season is unusual and human cases are expected to peak in the coming months.
Although many infected people do not develop symptoms, some can develop serious illness. In 2022, Colorado recorded 206 human cases and 20 deaths from West Nile virus. People over the age of 60 and with certain medical conditions are at higher risk.
The virus is spread mainly through the bites of infected mosquitoes. To protect yourself, it is recommended to use insect repellents outdoors, limit activities at dawn and dusk, wear protective clothing, and eliminate standing water in the home. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of this significant increase in cases and remain vigilant in preventing and controlling the spread of the virus.
