Montrose County Public Health Confirms Three West Nile Virus Cases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 24, 2026
Contact: Erika Story, Montrose County Communications Director
estory@montrosecounty.net, (970) 417-8711

Montrose County Public Health Confirms Three West Nile Virus Cases

MONTROSE, COLO.- Montrose County Public Health has confirmed three human cases of West Nile virus in Montrose County this season and is reminding residents to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

West Nile virus is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. In Colorado, most human cases are typically reported in August and September, making continued prevention especially important as mosquito activity continues.

“With three confirmed cases in Montrose County, we want residents to be aware that West Nile virus is present in our county and take simple steps to reduce their risk,” said Lisa Gallegos, Emergency Preparedness and Response Coordinator for Montrose County Public Health. “Using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, limiting time outdoors when mosquitoes are most active and eliminating standing water around your home can all help prevent mosquito bites.”

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. About 20 percent of infected people may experience flu-like symptoms, while fewer than one percent develop a serious, potentially life-threatening illness. Adults over age 60 and people with certain medical conditions are at greater risk of serious illness. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms, including severe headache or confusion, should contact a health care provider.

Montrose County Public Health encourages residents to take the following precautions throughout mosquito season:

To Protect Yourself

Use insect repellent when outdoors. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol provide effective protection. Always follow label instructions.
Limit outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes that can carry West Nile virus are most active.
Wear protective clothing, including long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks, in areas where mosquitoes are active. Clothing can also be treated with an appropriate insect repellent for additional protection.

To Mosquito-Proof Your Home

Drain standing water around your home at least once a week. Empty water from tires, cans, flowerpots, clogged gutters, rain barrels, birdbaths, toys and other areas where water can collect.
Install or repair screens on windows and doors to help keep mosquitoes outside.
Consider replacing outdoor lights with yellow “bug lights.” These lights may attract fewer mosquitoes but do not repel them.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and continue taking precautions throughout the mosquito season.

Free mosquito dunks are also available to Montrose County residents through Montrose County Public Health for use in larger areas of standing water that cannot be easily drained. Mosquito dunks help prevent mosquito larvae from developing in standing water. Residents can pick up free mosquito dunks at Montrose County Public Health, 1845 South Townsend Avenue in Montrose, while supplies last.

For more information about West Nile virus, prevention and symptoms, visit the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s West Nile virus webpage.

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