West Nile Virus Found in Fort Collins Mosquitoes

Summer is great, but there is one buzzing issue that I have when it comes to the season. It can be miserable for someone like me who loves to be outdoors but is also loved by blood-sucking pests.

READ MORE: Denver Named One of the Worst Cities for Mosquitoes

I know that mosquitoes have their place in the food chain and ecosystem, but they are horrible creatures that love to bite me. To make matters worse, mosquitoes can carry diseases, and one of them is the West Nile virus.

Jojo Dexter

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the West Nile virus is most commonly spread by mosquitoes through a bite, causing the infection. Symptoms of West Nile can include fever, headaches, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash.

Those are just some of the mild symptoms. In severe cases, it can affect the central nervous system, which could result in hospitalization or death. This can all happen from one bite from an infected mosquito.

West Nile Virus Found in Fort Collins Mosquitoes

The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment has confirmed that a sample of mosquitoes has tested positive for the West Nile virus on July 30, 2026. The infected mosquitoes were found in the northeast area of Fort Collins, and one confirmed case of West Nile Virus has been reported in Larimer County.

How to Protect Yourself From West Nile Virus

To best defend yourself from mosquito bites and increase the prevention of getting West Nile virus, there are a couple of things you can do:

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent regularly.
• Wear loose-fitting and long-sleeved shirts and pants while on walks, gardening, or other outside activities.
• Avoid outdoor activities outdoors during peak times when mosquitoes bite, such as dawn and dusk.

READ MORE: Windsor Launches Mosquito Surveillance Program

More information on the West Nile virus found in mosquitoes in Fort Collins can be seen at larimer.gov.