First West Nile mosquito trapped

The first mosquito in Larimer County to test positive for the West Nile virus surfaced on June 8, trapped by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention near Shields Street and West Vine in Fort Collins.

It was the first positive test of any species in the county this year, and also the first positive mosquito site in Colorado. "We now have a confirmation that the West Nile virus is present in the county, which is really not a surprise," said health department director Dr. Adrienne LeBailly.

The health department has been monitoring results of mosquito traps from 93 locations in the county, as well as reports of dead birds and horses. No animal or human cases have been confirmed yet in the county.

In Larimer County last year, 93 people were hospitalized with West Nile virus and nine people died from the disease. The first positive bird was reported on June 30 in 2003, and the first human became ill from West Nile on July 6. This year, three human cases have been reported so far in Colorado.

According to Ann Watson of the health department, officials are hoping that this year will be better than last in terms of West Nile infections. Factors that may help include early application of larvicide, more awareness and better preventive measures on the part of the public and the fact that, so far, there are fewer mosquitoes on the loose this year.