Mosquitoes in Fort Collins have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) for the first time this season. While the risk of contracting WNV remains low, mosquito traps in Fort Collins, Weld County and the Town of Berthoud found mosquitoes infected with the disease.
The measure of infected mosquitoes, is 0.004 citywide. Before the City considers adulticiding the vector index must be 0.75 in any of the zones. The County has a lower threshold for action and may initiate an application earlier per the Director of the Health and Environment Dept.’s recommendation.
The symptoms of West Nile range from none to very serious. With the presence of the disease residents are encouraged to protect themselves using the Four D’s:
1. Drain. Mosquitoes breed in water. Drain standing water each week. Bird baths and clogged gutters are common breeding sites.
2. Dress. Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants while outdoors. Spray clothing with insect repellent since mosquitoes may bite through clothing.
3. Defend. Apply insect repellent sparingly to exposed skin. Use an approved repellent according to its label. To find the repellent that is right for you visit cfpub.epa.gov/oppref/insect/#searchform.4. Dawn/Dusk. Limit time spent outdoors at dawn through dusk, when mosquitoes are feeding.
While there are no guarantees that you will not get WNV, using the Four D’s helps minimize the risk. To learn more about WNV visit fcgov.com/westnile.