Colorado’s West Nile Season Starts Early With Fort Collins Case

West Nile virus has been detected in Northern Colorado. Right now is a good time to take precautions such as wearing repellent and avoiding dawn and dusk.

Mosquito Tests Positive in Fort Collins

The Larimer County Department of Health sent out a press release and confirmed that a mosquito in southeast Fort Collins has tested positive for West Nile virus.

READ MORE: Windsor, Colorado, Launches Mosquito Surveillance Program to Fight West Nile

Health Officials Urge Residents to Take Precautions

According to the press release, the Larimer County Department of Health sampled a mosquito population, and they did in fact test positive for West Nile virus. Larimer County is warning residents to take precautions and monitor and symptoms. They say that one in five residents who are bitten by a mosquito with the virus will experience flu-like symptoms.

Northern Colorado Pets Can Be Affected Too

This is also a sign to watch your pets as well. Dogs, cats, and other critters can contract West Nile virus, just like humans. However, it is rare that they feel any effects. In rare cases, it can be fatal.

READ MORE: Learn More About How Your Dog Can Get West Nile Virus

An Early Start to West Nile Season in Colorado

West Nile virus season is a real thing in Colorado. That season lasts from July to August, typically, and this marks an unusually early start to West Nile virus season in Colorado.

Boulder County Saw First Case in August 2024

In 2024, the first confirmed case of West Nile virus was in Boulder County in August. That case was linked to a resident being hospitalized. It is a good thing that Larimer County was able to confirm a case before anybody contracts the virus from a mosquito.