Health experts urge vigilance against West Nile virus amid rising cases

In the United States, people have been asked to remain vigilant against the West Nile virus as cases continue to emerge, particularly in Colorado and Delaware County, Pennsylvania. In Colorado, health experts are concerned about increased West Nile cases this summer compared to last year, with notable occurrences resulting in severe illness. Curtis Wolff, a resident of Thornton, Colorado, shared his life-altering experience after contracting the virus from a mosquito bite in 2012, which led to a three-week coma and extensive rehabilitation to regain his physical abilities. His story underscores the importance of preventive measures against mosquito bites. Across Colorado, there have been 95 reported cases of West Nile virus this year, leading to six fatalities. Boulder County, in particular, has seen a significant percentage of infections since tracking for the disease began in 2003. While symptomatic cases like Wolff’s are rare, health officials emphasize the need for residents to be proactive in avoiding mosquito bites, especially as warmer weather prolongs mosquito activity and raises the potential for further transmission of the virus. Carol Helwig from Boulder County Public Health notes the importance of using insect repellent and being aware of the environment. In Delaware County, Pennsylvania, the health department recently reported its first human case of the West Nile virus for the year 2025. Although the infected individual's details were not disclosed, health officials remarked that human cases are not uncommon and highlight the importance of community awareness in preventing outbreaks. The county's history shows peaks of infection occurring in 2012, 2018, and 2021, with the highest number of cases recently being reported in 2021. Most infected individuals do not display any symptoms, but those who do may suffer from fever, headaches, body aches, and fatigue that can linger for weeks or months. Delaware County health officials are placing a strong focus on preventive strategies, urging residents to drain standing water, wear long clothing, and apply bug repellents. The increase in positive mosquito tests noted in recent months further emphasizes the necessity for community vigilance as the summer progresses into fall. With more than 100 mosquitoes identified as positive for the virus in the county, health authorities are preparing for potential additional cases as temperatures remain conducive for mosquito survival and proliferation.