West Nile Virus Detected in Laramie Mosquitos
When the mosquitos finally seemed to be dying down, the blood-sucking bothers had to become more problematic. West Nile Virus has been detected in eight mosquito samples collected over the past two weeks outside of Laramie city limits.
The risk rating of WVN infection continues to be a Level 1 (Low Risk) based on the CDC guidelines for phased responses. Level one is categorized as “limited to sporadic activity in local mosquitoes and birds.”
The City of Laramie Mosquito Control collected the WNV-positive pesks in surveillance traps, and tested a total of 163 pooled samples of Culex tarsalis mosquitos. The City’s press release states “Culex tarsalis is the known vector of WNV in the region. No avian, equine, or human cases have been reported at this time in Albany County.”
The Wyoming Department of Health has reported only one human case of WNV in the state, in Goshen County, and zero animal cases.
There is a high concentration of vector mosquitos near the Big Laramie River and around agricultural locations outside western city limits, but low numbers of vector mosquitos are being found inside city limits.
The City of Laramie Mosquito Control Division will continue to fog neighborhoods and other targeted areas. All “No Spray” zones will continue to be honored at this time.
The City of Laramie reminds residents “ WNV can infect people of all ages, but the elderly may be at the greatest risk for a serious infection,” and to wear appropriate insect repellent.
Further Wyoming WNV information can be found online at the www.badskeeter.org or the Centers for Disease Control website: http://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html
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