FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Aug 13, 2025
Media Contact: Shirley Tatto
970-874-2165 | statto@deltacountyco.gov
First Positive West Nile Virus Mosquitoes Identified in Delta County
Residents are urged to follow the “4R’s” to prevent West Nile Virus!
A mosquito pool collected in the Delta area has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the first confirmed pool on the Western Slope this year. The positive result was reported by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment's (CDPHE) state lab.
To help control mosquito populations, use larvicides in standing water. Larvicide "dunks" are available free at Delta County Public Health. Granular larvicides can be found at hardware stores and online.
The most effective way to prevent West Nile Virus (WNV) is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Remember the Four R's:
- REPEL mosquitoes with an EPA-registered insect repellent.
- REMOVE standing water from your home and yard.
- REPAIR or replace damaged window and door screens.
- REMIND your family, friends, and neighbors about mosquito safety.
For more information: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/animal-related-diseases/west-nile-virus/west-nile-virus-data
Samantha Traubel environmental health director Delta County Public Health
Fight the Bite: Protect Yourself and Your Family from West Nile Virus This 2025 Season!
Increased precipitation and warmer temperatures mean a rise in mosquito activity – be prepared!
Delta County Public Health wants to remind residents that now is the critical time to "fight the bite" as we head into the 2025 West Nile Virus season. Mosquito breeding thrives with warm temperatures and standing water. Each summer, Delta County diligently partners with local mosquito control districts to trap and test mosquitoes for West Nile virus (WNV) activity. In Colorado, the majority of human WNV cases are typically reported between August and September, but can happen before or after, making proactive prevention essential.
Protecting yourself and your loved ones from mosquito bites remains the most effective way to prevent WNV infection. There are currently no vaccines or specific medications available to treat WNV in people. Delta County strongly recommends adopting the 4 Ps of mosquito protection to minimize your risk:
- Protect: Always use an EPA-registered insect repellent when spending time outdoors. These repellents have been rigorously tested and are proven safe and effective when used as directed, even for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals. Look for active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), Para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone.
- Prevent: Take immediate steps to eliminate standing water sources around your home and property. Mosquitoes require stagnant water to lay their eggs and complete their life cycle. Regularly empty areas that collect water, such as pots, planters, old tires, bird baths, and clogged rain gutters. If you have standing water that cannot be drained every few days, consider treating it with a larvicide (often referred to as "mosquito dunks") to kill mosquito larvae before they develop into biting adults. Free mosquito dunks are available for pick-up at the Delta County Health Department, located at 255 West 6th St.
- Pants and long sleeves: When venturing outdoors, particularly during peak mosquito activity, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Opt for loose-fitting clothing, as mosquitoes can sometimes bite through tight-knit fabrics.
- Peak hours avoidance: Limit your outdoor activities during dawn and dusk. These are the peak biting times for many mosquito species carrying WNV. If you must be outside during these hours, ensure you are adequately protected with repellent and appropriate clothing.
For more information on West Nile Virus and mosquito prevention, please visit: https://www.deltacounty.com/451/Animals-Insects
Contact: Samantha Traubel, Environmental Health Director
970-874-2165 | eh@deltacountyco.gov