Mosquito bites are annoying, itchy and sometimes dangerous for our health. The West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that affects humans if they get bit by one. Most cases occur during summer when it is also the mosquito season. Recent reports found that Colorado mosquitoes have tested positive for the West Nile virus.
No human cases have been reported this summer
So far, there have been no West Nile cases reported for humans. This does not mean that we can forget about protecting ourselves from mosquito bites. Once the virus is detected in mosquitoes, humans can quickly get infected. A first step to protect ourselves is to use insect repellent. Some other good advice is to wear long sleeves and avoid going out during the day when mosquitoes are most active.
It takes several days to detect the infection
Once a human gets infected with the West Nile virus, it might take three to fourteen days to experience the typical symptoms. The most common symptoms are headaches, nausea, fever, vomiting, rashes, and body weakness. However, experts warn that most people do not experience any symptoms. Severe symptoms are not common, but they can happen.
Tri-County is trying to keep the virus away
On the official website of Tri-County, it is written that the Health Department has already taken several steps to ensure that the mosquitoes colonies are kept under control. There is a surveillance program to detect the West Nile virus, and several wild animals have also been tested. There are also mosquito traps, and there are other prevention measures to be implemented. It is advisable to avoid leaving still water in yards and open places to avoid mosquito breeding.