Mosquito season: it ain’t over ‘til it’s over,
so please be careful! 

Mosquito season in Broomfield isn’t over.  Until it is, Broomfield’s Public Health and Environment Division and Public Works Environmental Services remind residents to continue diligent West Nile Virus precautions until after the first hard frost-probably in late September or early October. 

Last week, for the first time in 2006, three mosquito pools in Broomfield tested positive for West Nile Virus.  The infected mosquitoes appear to be migrating into Broomfield from the north where they have been detected for several weeks. While the numbers are small, the presence of the virus is something to be aware of, at least until the first hard frost. 

Then, the cold inhibits mosquitoes from hatching, and the virus transmitted through mosquitoes will no longer be a public health concern. 

While the weather remains warm, residents should take precautions when they are outside.  This is especially true at this time of year when tennis, soccer, baseball, softball and football games are scheduled in Broomfield schools and parks.   

Parents are urged to protect children from mosquito bites by using repellent.  Those containing DEET have been found to be most effective.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also found that mosquito repellants with picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are also effective deterrents.    

For walkers and others who like to be outside, precautions are especially encouraged at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

To protect homes and neighborhoods, empty standing water from flower pots, buckets or any outside containers where mosquitoes can breed.  Keep roof gutters free from clogs so water doesn’t back up and stand, creating a breeding place for mosquitoes.  Repair holes in window and door screens.  Where there are no screens, keep windows and doors closed.  Don’t over-water lawns and keep them mowed to an appropriate height. 

West Nile Virus is a potentially serious disease for humans.  Symptoms can range from minor discomfort to severe illness, including fever, headache and body aches that last from several days to several weeks.