Montrose County Confirms First Positive West Nile Case of the Season

Montrose County, Colo. (KJCT) – Montrose County Public Health has confirmed its first case of West Nile virus in a 70-year-old male. This marks the first positive case of the virus in the county for the 2024 season.

“Now is the time to continue to stay watchful and prepared,” said Montrose County Public Health Director Jim Austin. “Despite the cooler evening temperatures, mosquitoes are still a concern until the temperatures drop consistently.”

In 2023, Montrose County reported 2 cases of West Nile virus. While most people infected with the virus don’t experience symptoms, about 20% will have flu-like symptoms, and fewer than 1% develop a serious, potentially deadly illness. Those over age 60 and with certain medical conditions are at greater risk of severe illness.

Protecting Yourself and Your Home

To avoid West Nile virus, health officials recommend taking the following precautions:

• Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when going outdoors
• Limit outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active
• Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks in areas with high mosquito activity
• Drain standing water around your home at least once a week
• Install or repair screens on windows and doors
• Replace outdoor lights with yellow “bug lights” to attract fewer mosquitoes

Montrose County is also providing free mosquito dunks to residents at the Public Health Office locations to help control mosquito populations.

With the first positive case confirmed, health authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from West Nile virus.