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2 new human cases of West Nile virus confirmed in Larimer County

Posted at 5:00 PM, Aug 26, 2019
and last updated 2019-08-26 19:00:58-04

FORT COLLINS, Colo. — West Nile virus has struck Larimer County as the first two human cases of the disease this season were reported Monday, according to the county’s health department.

The two new cases of the mosquito-borne illness are in Wellington and Fort Collins. The two adult cases have not required hospitalizations, officials said.

The virus was first detected in mosquitoes this season in late July around Fort Collins and Loveland, the department said.

Mosquito numbers are abundant in many areas of the county, according to a department news release.

Symptoms may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, rash, muscle weakness or swollen lymph nodes.

Health officials are advising people to protect themselves from the virus by using an effective repellent containing DEET or staying indoors when mosquitoes are biting.