Arapahoe County reported its first case of West Nile virus today, bringing the total of 2008 West Nile cases to 23 in Colorado.
A 40-year-old Arapahoe County woman was diagnosed with viral meningitis, a swelling of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, according to Dr. Richard Vogt, executive director of the Tri-County Health Department.
“This most recent case is a good reminder for everyone to avoid all mosquito bites as much as possible,” said Vogt. “Therefore, it is crucial that people reduce mosquito-breeding areas around their homes and also use insect repellent and protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites every time they are outdoors, whether in the backwoods or in their own backyard.”
According to statistics released Tuesday by the Colorado Department of Public Health, the counties with the most cases in 2008 have been Boulder, Larimer and Weld. Boulder has had five cases, and Larimer and Weld counties each had four.
Four of the victims have been in the 35-39 age range, while five victims were from 50-54.
Two victims were younger than 4, and two victims were between 70 and 74.
In less serious cases, symptoms can include fever, headaches, body aches, skin rashes and swollen lymph nodes.
In more severe cases, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, muscle weakness and convulsions can occur.
Officials say that people with the more severe symptoms should seek medical attention immediately because the West Nile Virus can cause paralysis, encephalitis and meningitis.
In some cases, West Nile can be fatal.
Symptoms normally appear three to 14 days after exposure.
The virus is carried by birds and then spread to humans by mosquitoes that bite the birds.
Howard Pankratz: 303-954-1939 or hpankratz@denverpost.com
