West Nile virus detected in Garfield County mosquitoes
Take precautions to stay safe this summer
PRESS RELEASE
August 6, 2025
Garfield County, especially the areas around Silt, Rifle, Battlement Mesa, and Parachute, is home to a type of mosquito that can carry the West Nile virus. Mosquito surveillance and testing have detected the presence of West Nile virus in mosquitoes in our area.
“Mosquitoes are acquiring the virus from infected birds,” said Garfield County Environmental Health Manager Jannette Whitcomb. “Our program collects mosquitoes to identify their type, and to test for the presence of West Nile virus. Mosquitoes in last week’s samples came back positive. This is an indicator that the community has an increased risk of contracting the virus if bitten by this particular species.”
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and Boulder County Public Health confirmed the state’s first human death from West Nile virus this year on July 25.
Mosquito testing and control efforts are conducted throughout Garfield County during the summer and are reported weekly.
Most people with West Nile virus have mild or no symptoms, but in rare cases, the virus can cause serious brain infections. There is no human vaccine to prevent West Nile virus, though a vaccine is available for horses. The only way to reduce your risk is to take precautions to avoid bites.
Pro tip
Want to enjoy mosquito-free time on the porch? Mosquitoes are low and weak fliers. Create a breeze to help keep them from landing by placing a box fan nearby to keep air movement going. Some people even recommend placing a window screen on the back side of the fan to trap mosquitoes as air is drawn in.
The 4 Ds of prevention
Drain standing water
A mosquito can lay up to 300 eggs in a puddle the size of a bottle cap.
Dawn and dusk – protect during outdoor activity
Mosquitoes are most active during these times.
DEET or other effective repellents
Repellents work by helping to prevent mosquitoes from biting you.
Dress appropriately
Wear long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
Garfield County Public Health information is provided online on the Public Health website.