Take precautions

Mosquitoes in the City of Boulder and other Boulder County properties have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV).  Although the majority of mosquitoes being screened for the virus are negative, if bitten by a virus-carrying mosquito, there is a risk of people contracting the disease.  There have been no human cases confirmed in the City of Boulder or Boulder County this year.

On June 25, one positive mosquito sample collected was pooled from traps at Christensen Park and Stazio Ball Fields.  On July 2, a second positive sample collected was pooled from traps located at Christensen Park, Tom Watson Park, Locust and 10^th streets and South Boulder Recreation Center.  Pooled samples indicate that positive mosquitoes came from at least one of the sites listed.

To decrease the likelihood of human/mosquito interactions and to help minimize the spread of WNV, the city recommends that residents’ mosquito-proof their properties by:

• Draining any standing water outside your home;
• Not over-watering landscaping or turf (mosquitoes can breed in very small amounts of stagnant water); and
• Inspecting properties for any items that can hold water, including toys, tarps and covers, pots, wheelbarrows, tire swings, recycling bins, trash cans and lids. Birdbaths should be changed every 3 to 4 days.

The virus can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites. Keep safe this summer and remember the four D’s:

1. Use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, 2 percent soybean oil, or oil of lemon eucalyptus;
2. DRESS in long sleeves and pants.
3.  Avoid the outdoors from DUSK until DAWN.
4.  DRAIN standing water outside your home.

Beginning in mid-May, the city regularly monitors mosquito number (and type) with a grid of surveillance traps.  The city treats mosquito habitats with Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti).  Mosquito larval control with Bti is the most effective and environmentally sensitive strategy to control the spread of WNV mosquitoes and reduce the risk of human infections.

For general information about the city’s Mosquito Control program including WNV, visitwww.BoulderColorado.gov/ipm and click on, “Mosquito Control Program.”  There is also a WNV Hotline at 303-441-3400 that provides basic information and weekly updates if new information is available.  The State of Colorado also provides helpful WSN resources at www.fightthebitecolorado.com.

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