State health officials warn that the recent rains were perfect for the breeding of mosquitoes that carry the West Nile virus.
“These types of mosquitoes are puddle breeders,” said John Pape, an epidemiologist with the state Department of Public Health and Environment. “Once the puddles start warming up, they’re perfect for the mosquitoes to start breeding in.
“After these rains, it’s a good time to walk around your yard and make sure you’re not a mosquito breeder,” said Pape. “Look for standing water in roof gutters or any containers. A small tin can filled with water under a bush can breed thousands of mosquitoes in a summer.”
Screens over windows and doors should be checked and repaired, and water in bird baths, plastic swimming pools and ornamental ponds should be changed at least weekly, he said.
Historically, the specific mosquitoes that carry the West Nile virus emerge from their winter homes in late April and early May. They breed throughout the summer, with the largest numbers occurring in July and August. Pape said it’s too early to tell if the recent rains will cause a spike in the numbers of virulent mosquitoes.
So far this year, two cases of humans contracting the West Nile virus have been confirmed in Logan and Weld counties, with a third suspected. But the worst is yet to come. Last year, Colorado had 106 confirmed cases of humans contracting the West Nile virus with 2 deaths, and 291 cases including 4 deaths in 2004.
Pape said the mosquitoes remain inactive during the heat of midday, and emerge during the cooler hours of dawn and dusk. He urged residents to use repellant containing DEET, to cover up bare skin and avoid going out, if possible, in the early mornings and late evenings.
“The West Nile virus is here to stay,” Pape said.
Staff writer Mike McPhee can be reached at (303) 820-1409 or at mmcphee@denverpost.com.
