Larimer County is confirming two human cases of West Nile Virus this year. The news is raising concerns about the increased risk of infection for residents.
The two cases involved residents from north Loveland and south Fort Collins who were hospitalized with serious forms of West Nile infections. Health officials estimate that for every serious neuroinvasive case, an estimated 150-250 people have become infected with the virus and 35-60 people have symptomatic illness.
Symptoms can include fever, headaches and body aches.
“We really want people to take mosquito repellant protection seriously. Use repellent when you’re out in the evenings these days, especially when the counts are so high,” said Jane Viste, a spokesperson for the Larimer County Department of Health and the Environment.
Recent results of mosquito trapping in Larimer County show that the numbers of mosquitoes carrying the virus are rising at a rapid rate, according to county officials.
Loveland began last week spraying for mosquitoes. Meantime, Boulder County began spraying in early July after a mosquito pool tested positive for the virus.
