PRESS RELEASE Pueblo City-County Health Department Media contact: , Public Information Officer (719)583-4526

West Virus Confirmed in Pueblo County Pueblo, CO—July 16, 2015, Officials from the Pueblo City-County Health Department confirmed mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus in Pueblo. Public health officials urge individuals to protect themselves from mosquitoes. The recent rainfall has resulted in higher populations of mosquitoes.

“It is important individuals take precaution to avoid mosquitoes and West Nile virus. Mosquitoes collected in Pueblo have tested positive for West Nile Virus again this year,” said Chad Wolgram, Program Manager in the Environmental Health Division at the Pueblo City-County Health Department. He added, “So far, no human cases have been confirmed in Pueblo, let’s work together to prevent this.”

West Nile virus develops in the human body within 5-14 days after a bite from an infected mosquito. All forms of 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.

Wolgram 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 ingredients 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 2014 a total of seven human West Nile virus infections were confirmed in Pueblo. Additional information about West Nile virus can be found at Colorado’s website www.FightTheBiteColorado.com. ###

Pueblo City-County Health Department o 719.583.4526 c 719.671.1341 101 W. 9th Street Pueblo, CO 81003 pueblohealthdept.org

Mission: Pueblo City‐County Health Department is a vital asset, committed to promoting and protecting the health and environment of the community through prevention, partnerships, leadership and enforcement.