Denver reports first known human case of West Nile

A Denver resident has West Nile virus, and the local health department has urged the public to drain standing water and take other precautions.

The Denver Department of Public Health and Environment has not shared any information about the person, who was the first in the city with a confirmed West Nile case this year.

Normally, only people with more severe illnesses are tested for West Nile, because most infected people do not get sick or have general flu-like symptoms. In the worst cases, the virus invades the nervous system and sometimes causes coma or death.

The department had urged caution in early August when it found mosquitoes infected with West Nile in the city. People can protect themselves by:

• Disposing of water that has collected in items on their property, such as flower pots and toys, and cleaning those items

• Avoiding hitting sidewalks and driveways while watering their lawns, as puddles can form on uneven pavement

• Use of insect repellent containing DEET during outdoor activities

• Ensure that door and window screens are in good condition

• Avoid outdoor activities at sunrise and sunset

• Wearing long pants and sleeves when outside

Arapahoe County reported the state’s first case in late June, marking an early start to the West Nile season. The season so far has not been particularly severe: 13 people have tested positive, including seven who required hospital care, but no one has died. according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. The state’s data does not yet include the Denver case.