West Nile Virus Risk in Colorado

As noted by the CDC, West Nile Virus in Boulder is passed on from birds to Culex mosquitoes to humans. When a mosquito feeds on an infected bird, the virus multiplies in their bloodstream and ultimately enters their saliva. Once this happens, mosquitoes can pass on the virus to their next host, whether that be people or pets. In humans, West Nile Virus can lead to symptoms ranging from body aches, nausea, and joint pain to stiff neck and disorientation in more serious cases. While the majority of people experience no side effects, those with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, and people over the age of 65 are at a higher risk of experiencing severe or long-standing symptoms. 

West Nile Virus transmission tends to increase during the late summer months as mosquitoes increasingly bite humans and mammals. Additionally, the incubation period for mosquitoes accelerates as temperatures increase in Boulder, while the egg laying and hatching cycle increases in tandem. This combination leads to heightened mosquito activity and a higher likelihood of West Nile Virus contraction.

If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of West Nile Virus, please contact your medical provider for assistance.

Reduce Mosquito Activity at Your Boulder Home

To reduce the risk of mosquito activity and West Nile Virus, it’s essential to target areas around your Boulder home that contribute to mosquito nesting and breeding. Mosquitoes nest and breed in areas where cool shade, humidity, and dense vegetation create the ideal conditions for resting away from the hot summer sun. Trim the areas of your property which border local parks, creeks, or areas of dense vegetation. This will help to reduce the transition zones where mosquitoes enter your yard from their primary nesting area. Reduce the amount of leaf litter or decaying brush found around your home and underneath porches and decks. These areas provide shelter from wind and sun, while also creating pockets of humidity as leaf litter and brush naturally decays.

Dump standing water from covered patio furniture, children’s toys, and flower saucers after a recent rainfall. Because female mosquitoes can lay between 100 and 300 eggs in only one teaspoon of water, these areas become small breeding grounds which are typically overlooked. Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of any debris which can lead to places where water pools and stagnates unnoticed. Check drip irrigation for areas where excess water may be pooling in voids within the lawn or garden bed. Use mosquito dunks in areas where deep water pools and stagnates on a regular basis. This treats the water so larvae cannot complete their cycle.

For outdoor activity, consider using citronella candles and mosquito repellents. Mosquitoes track the scent of CO2, sweat, and body heat in order to find their host. Mosquito repellents help to disguise and mask the scent of your sweat, but need to be applied thoroughly in order to fully cover all open areas. Citronella candles help to deter and repel mosquitoes through a combination of scents, but can be affected by wind or potency.

For more information about reducing mosquito activity in Boulder, read The 7 T’s of Mosquito Control and check out our dedicated Fort Collins blog.

Professional Mosquito Control Services in Boulder

At Mosquito Squad Plus, we offer comprehensive mosquito control services to support residents of Boulder. Our traditional mosquito control plan, Barrier Treatment Plus, is designed to help reduce mosquitoes by up to 85-90% and control their presence for up to 21 days. This recurring treatment is designed to be reapplied on a rolling 3-week basis in order to maintain a barrier that binds to the surface and disrupts the cycle of breeding. Through tailored treatments and targeted application, we can reduce mosquito activity and control their presence throughout the duration of your selected mosquito control plan.

Looking for environmentally conscious options? We also offer a natural treatment blend of botanical oils which reduces and controls mosquitoes for up to 14 days.

For Reliable Mosquito Control in Boulder, CO Near You

Want to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus carriers at your home in Boulder? Call Mosquito Squad Plus of Fort Collins at (970) 658-2820 or contact us online for a free quote.