Colorado suffers two adult deaths due to West Nile Virus outbreak

In August 2025, a significant surge in West Nile Virus cases has been reported across the United States, with Colorado and New Jersey being the most affected states. In Colorado, specifically Montrose County, health officials confirmed that a man in his early 80s became the first reported death from the virus this year. Additionally, officials from Larimer County reported another adult death linked to West Nile Virus about the same time, emphasizing the gravity of this public health crisis. Amid increasing cases, officials are urging residents to adopt preventative measures against mosquito bites. As mosquito populations grow in the summer months, the risk of West Nile Virus transmission escalates considerably. Health officials in Colorado are focusing on reducing mosquito breeding grounds through spraying campaigns and community education on personal protective measures. Alongside recommendations such as wearing long sleeves and using EPA-registered insect repellents, residents are encouraged to avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk—times when mosquitoes are most active. They are also advised to eliminate standing water, which can serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes. Regular updates and educational outreach are ongoing to keep the community informed about the dangers associated with this disease. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, health officials are raising alarms after detecting multiple human cases of West Nile Virus earlier in the summer. The first confirmed case reported involved a child in Atlantic County who exhibited symptoms in the third week of July. This case was shortly followed by another adult's positive test in Middlesex County. While both patients were treated and discharged from hospitals, their cases prompted the New Jersey Department of Health to remind residents of the ongoing risks posed by mosquitoes. The presence of the virus in local mosquito populations raised concerns about further cases developing as the season continues. Furthermore, a significant number of suspected cases are currently under investigation, with health department officials remaining vigilant as they track the spread of the virus. In 2024, New Jersey had reported 41 human cases, resulting in a notable number of fatalities. As such, proactive measures are critical now, with health professionals advocating for protective actions against mosquito bites to mitigate the risk of illness. The multifaceted public health response is aimed at overcoming the challenges presented by this mosquito-borne virus.