Campers beware – 51 people were killed by Colorado’s deadliest animal last year

There are plenty of animals that can kill a human in Colorado – black bears, mountain lions, rattlesnakes, bison, moose, even bighorn sheep, to name a few. Granted, deaths caused by these animals tend to be few and far between, and despite this, encounters involving these species tends to get the most attention. That being said, the deadliest species in Colorado does the opposite, feasting on human blood in order to stay alive, killing several dozen Coloradans last year alone.

That’s right – the mosquito is the deadliest animal in Colorado – by far – resulting in 229 deaths since 2003. While tiny, this creature’s annoying bite can pack a fatal punch.

In 2023, 51 Coloradans were killed by the mosquito-transmitted West Nile Virus among 634 documented cases – an 8 percent death rate and the highest number of deaths since the record-setting year of 2003 when 66 deaths took place. It’s also worth noting that there were 386 hospitalizations related to the virus last year, as well. The death toll of 2023 was far above the average number of deaths for the previous 10 years – 7.7 deaths annually.

While 2024 is off to a slower start when it comes to West Nile Virus-related fatalities and hospitalizations, the risk is nothing to scoff at while spending time outside in Colorado. At last report, seven cases have already popped up, with four of the individuals involved in those cases getting hospitalized as a result. It’s also important to keep in mind that cases don’t generally start to ramp up until this point in the year, typically peaking around mid-to-late August.

This information isn’t meant to instill fear – after all, most people that get bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile virus probably won’t even realize if they’re battling the associated disease. That being said, people aged 60 and older, as well as those with certain medical conditions, face a greater chance of more serious symptoms after contracting the disease, including potential death.

Because of the prevalence of West Nile virus in Colorado and how much time locals tend to spend outside, it’s crucial for all to take steps to remain safe during outdoor recreation.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment recommends utilizing insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol when spending time outside. It’s also recommended that Coloradans avoid being outside during times when mosquitos are most active – dusk and dawn. Wearing clothing that covers exposed skin can also be an effective deterrent.

The first noticeable symptoms of West Nile virus tend to be severe headaches and confusion. Consult with your health care provider immediately if you notice these symptoms popping up.

Find a county-by-county breakdown of where Colorado’s cases of West Nile virus take place here.

#     #     #

Article via OutThereColorado