Person Tests Positive for the West Nile in Pueblo County
The Pueblo County Health Department says a person has contracted the West Nile Virus.
They released the following statement Thursday (08/18/16) afternoon:
Officials from the Pueblo City-County Health Department announced Pueblo County’s first laboratory confirmed West Nile virus case in an individual.
“The first human case of West Nile virus is confirmed in our community,” stated Jody Carrillo, division director of Environmental Health and Emergency Preparedness of the Pueblo City-County Health Department. She also added, “The Department confirmed yesterday a mosquito pool tested positive for West Nile virus in Pueblo County. It is very important every individual take precautions to avoid the West Nile virus illness.”
West Nile virus develops in the human body within 5-14 days after a bite from an infected mosquito. West Nile virus can be serious including fever, meningitis and encephalitis, and have potential for causing long-term illness and disability. West Nile virus can affect any age group.
Symptoms of West Nile virus may include fever, fatigue, headache, muscle weakness, rash, stiff neck or changed mental state. Some infected persons experience a feeling of extreme tiredness and weakness for several weeks. Promptly seek medical attention from a physician if you have any of these symptoms.
“Pueblo experienced an increased amount of mosquitoes due to the increased rainfall and high water levels on the rivers. It is important to take the necessary precautions,” emphasized Ms. Carrillo.
Carrillo advises all individuals to protect themselves from West Nile virus by following the Four D’s:
DRAIN standing water around your house weekly. Remember to drain water from tires, cans, flowerpots, clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, toys and puddles.
DUSK and DAWN are when mosquitoes are most active. Limit outdoor activities and take precautions to prevent mosquito bites during these times.
DEET is an effective ingredient to look for in insect repellents. Always follow label instructions for application.
DRESS in long sleeves and pants in areas where mosquitoes are active
During 2015 a total of four human West Nile virus infections were confirmed in Pueblo. To date, Colorado has had 17 human cases of West Nile virus in 11 counties.
Additional information about West Nile virus can be found at Colorado’s website www.FightTheBiteColorado.com.
