All articles tagged with #la plata county
La Plata County Public Health is investigating a suspected plague outbreak following mass prairie dog die-offs, with tests pending but ongoing concerns about the bacterial disease that can affect humans and pets. Residents are advised to take precautions such as using insect repellent and avoiding handling dead animals, while authorities emphasize public education and caution against eradicating prairie dogs to prevent spreading fleas.
A resident of La Plata County in Colorado has died from West Nile virus, marking the state's second fatality from the mosquito-borne disease this year. The first case was reported in the county last month, and the first death occurred in Weld County in early August. Public health officials are urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using repellents, limiting outdoor activity during dusk and dawn, and wearing long-sleeved clothing. Colorado has reported cases of West Nile virus every year since 2002, with La Plata County having 63 cases in the last 20 years. State officials are concerned about the high number of infected mosquitoes detected this season.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has identified a case of West Nile virus in La Plata County. Most people infected with the virus do not experience symptoms or only have mild symptoms, but severe cases can lead to brain infection and potentially death. There is no vaccine for West Nile virus, and supportive care is the only available treatment. The health department recommends using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of infection.