West Nile virus found in Laramie mosquitos

LARAMIE, Wyo. (PRESS RELEASE) - West Nile virus has been detected in eight mosquito samples collected over the past two weeks just outside of Laramie city limits.

The positive samples were isolated in mosquitos collected from surveillances traps monitored by City of Laramie Mosquito Control. The samples were determined to be positive for WNV via RAMP testing performed by City of Laramie Mosquito technicians this week.

The rating of the Risk of West Nile virus infection continues to be rated at Level 1, or low risk, based on the Centers for Disease Control guidelines.

Currently, virus activity is categorized as “limited to sporadic activity in local mosquitoes and birds”, according to a press release from the City of Laramie.

City of Laramie Mosquito Technicians have tested a total of 163 pooled samples of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes so far in the 2023 mosquito season. Culex tarsalis is the known vector of WNV in the region. No avian, equine, or human cases have been reported at this time in Albany County.

The Wyoming Department of Health has been notified of these positive mosquito pools. Currently, the WDH is reporting one positive human case (Goshen County) and no animal cases in Wyoming.

Current surveillance locally shows high numbers of vector mosquitoes being collected at trap locations adjacent to the Big Laramie River and agricultural areas on the west side of town just outside of city limits. Residential surveillance sites within city limits report low vector numbers.

The City of Laramie Mosquito Control Division will continue to fog residential neighborhoods where both vector and nuisance mosquitos are being found in adult mosquito surveillance traps.

Mosquito Control continues to perform targeted larval control and adult fogging operations to control vector mosquitoes in areas of higher vector densities, areas where citizens often recreate in the evening hours and in areas on the western edge of town where vector numbers are higher.

Targeted areas include parks and recreation areas, golf courses, the Laramie River Greenbelt Trail, and agricultural areas adjacent to city limits. All “No Spray” zones will continue to be honored at this time.

Citizens are reminded that WNV can infect people of all ages, but the elderly may be at the greatest risk for a serious infection. Locally, the mosquitoes that transmit WNV are most active after dusk and citizens should limit activities in areas with high mosquito populations during this time.

Repairing screens, especially in sleeping rooms, and using personal protection such as proper clothing and insect repellent containing DEET, Picardan, or Lemon Eucalyptus oil can also reduce the risk.

Further Wyoming WNV information can be found on line at: the www.badskeeter.org or the Centers for Disease Control website: http://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html