Human Case of West Nile Virus Reported in Delta County
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Human Case of West Nile Virus Reported in Delta County
DELTA, Colo. – August 19, 2026 – Delta, Colo. – August 19, 2026 – Delta County Public Health is reporting a confirmed human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) this year. The individual is in their 80’s and is from the North Fork area.
West Nile virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. WNV is not spread from person to person. Mosquito surveillance continues throughout Delta County, and mosquito pools continue to test positive for West Nile virus in multiple areas of the county. These positive mosquito pools, along with the confirmed human case, indicate that West Nile Virus is actively circulating.
Delta County Public Health encourages residents to continue taking precautions to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of West Nile Virus infection.
West Nile Virus Symptoms
People of all ages can become infected with West Nile Virus. Most people who are infected will not develop symptoms. Approximately one in five people who become infected may develop symptoms including fever, headache, fatigue, muscle or joint aches, rash, or gastrointestinal symptoms.
The time between the bite of an infected mosquito and the onset of symptoms is usually two to six days, but can be up to 14 days.
In rare cases, West Nile Virus can cause severe illness. Older adults and people who are immunocompromised are at increased risk of severe disease. Contact a healthcare provider if you experience new or worsening symptoms, particularly severe headache, confusion, or other concerning symptoms.
There is no specific treatment for West Nile Virus. Mild illness usually improves on its own, and rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain medications may help relieve some symptoms.
Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
Prevention is especially important while West Nile Virus is actively circulating in the county.
Remember the four R’s:
REPEL mosquitoes by using an EPA-registered insect repellent.
REMOVE standing water from your home and yard.
REPAIR or replace damaged window and door screens.
REMIND family, friends, and neighbors to take precautions against mosquito bites.
When outdoors, use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing an effective active ingredient such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol. Always follow product label instructions.
Limit outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. When possible, wear loose-fitting long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks. Mosquitoes can bite through tight-fitting clothing.
Mosquito-Proof Your Home
Drain standing water around your home at least once a week. Check tires, cans, flowerpots, clogged gutters, rain barrels, birdbaths, toys, and other containers where water can collect.
Install or repair screens on windows and doors to help keep mosquitoes outside.
Anyone living in an area where West Nile virus is present in mosquitoes can become infected. People who spend more time outdoors may have greater exposure to mosquitoes and should take additional care to prevent bites.
For More Information
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment:
https://cdphe.colorado.gov/animal-related-diseases/west-nile-virus/west-nile-virus-data
Delta County Public Health:
https://www.deltacountyco.gov/820/West-Nile-Virus
Media Contact
Delta County Public Health
Shirley Tatto, Emergency Preparedness and Response Coordinator
970-874-2189
Delta County Public Health
255 W 6th Street - Delta, CO 81416
970.874.2165
Canyons – Rivers – Mountains
DeltaCountyCO.gov
Delta County Public Health | 255 W 6th St. | Delta, CO 81416 US
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