MESA COUNTY, Colo. (KKCO) - Yesterday it was horses; today, it's humans.
The Mesa County Health Department is reporting the first human case of West Nile virus in an adult resident of Mesa County this year.
Even though mosquito tests over the past week have not been positive for West Nile, rainy and windy weather can affect the results. Also, the incubation period for the virus is about 5-7 days, meaning a person can be infected by the virus but not show symptoms.
As of Aug. 13, Colorado had 24 human cases of West Nile Virus, but that doesn't include the positive Mesa County case or any others reported elsewhere since then.
In order to protect yourself from West Nile, follow these guidelines:
• Use insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
• Dress in long sleeves and pants when in areas where mosquitoes are active.
• Drain standing water on property.
• Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn; this is when mosquitoes are most active.
Of people infected with West Nile, 80% show no symptoms. Symptoms include headache, fever, body aches, nausea, a rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
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