Tag: Northern Colorado

Northern Colorado health officials confirm first West Nile Virus case in Weld County

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macro photo of a brown mosquito

On Monday, health officials in Northern Colorado confirmed the first case of West Nile Virus found in Weld County this year. The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment says the first case of 2026 comes one month later than it did in 2025. Health officials said they investigated 35 cases of West Nile in Weld County last year. Fortunately, the number of trapped Culex mosquitoes responsible for transmitting the virus is at a five year low.

However, approximately 80% of the ones captured have been in three zones which cover areas including: The Greeley, Evans, Kersey, LaSalle area The Johnstown, Milliken and Platteville area The Firestone, Dacono and Fort Lupton area Residents are encouraged to drain standing water around their homes every week and avoid outdoor activities during dusk and dawn, when the mosquitoes are more active.

They encourage the public to use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, lemon eucalyptus oil or para-menthane-diol. Residents should also wear long sleeves, pants and hats when outside. West Nile symptoms typically appear between three and 14 days after infection. Although many people do not show symptoms, those infected might experience fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, muscle aches, weakness and/or a rash. The WCDPHE said anyone who develops symptoms is encouraged to see a medical professional immediately.

Source: Northern Colorado health officials confirm first West Nile Virus case in Weld County – CBS Colorado

The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.
Psalm 145:18

Finding Truth and Life in Jesus

In a world filled with competing voices, confusing paths, and endless distractions, Jesus doesn’t simply show us the way He declares, ‘I am the way.’ When everything around you…

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Tularemia detected in Northern Colorado after dead rabbit discovered in Berthoud

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photo of two rabbits in a forest

Tularemia has been detected in Northern Colorado after a dead rabbit was discovered in a Berthoud neighborhood. According to Larimer County Department of Health and Environment, the bacteria was identified in a dead rabbit.  Health officials said that because tularemia is natural to Larimer County, it is likely present in other areas throughout the county.  They are reminding residents and visitors that a few simple precautions can help prevent illness from rabbits, ticks and other wildlife while enjoying the outdoors.  According to LCDHE, tularemia is a rare but potentially serious bacterial infection found in local wildlife, especially rabbits and rodents.

Health officials said it can spread to humans through bites from infected ticks and deer flies, direct contact with sick or dead animals and contaminated soil, water and vegetation.  Common symptoms, according to LCDHE, include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and skin ulcers. When diagnosed early, tularemia can be effectively treated with antibiotics. In Larimer County, there have been seven human cases of tularemia since 2020. In Larimer County, there have been 7 human cases of tularemia since 2020.  “Because tularemia is present in Larimer County, it’s important to take steps to avoid infection,” said Dr. Paul Mayer, the health department’s Medical Officer, in a statement.

He recommends that residents and visitors always “use effective insect repellent, check skin for ticks after being outdoors, and keep children and pets away from wild animals, including rabbits and squirrels.” Additional Information from LCDHE: To help reduce your risk of tularemia,

LCDHE recommends the following precautions when spending time outdoors:

  • Wear gloves while gardening and wash hands before eating or touching your face
  • Use an EPA-registered insect repellent effective against ticks and biting flies (such as DEET or picaridin)
  • Wear a dust mask when mowing, using a leaf blower, or digging in soil
  • Wear shoes outdoors, especially in areas where dead animals may have been
  • Use protective gloves to remove dead rabbits or rodents from your property 

Source: Tularemia detected in Northern Colorado after dead rabbit discovered in Berthoud – CBS Colorado

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28

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