West Nile Virus in Broomfield?

The City of Broomfield is reporting that this year may be a tough year for West Nile Virus (well okay, tough for those of us getting bit, may be a party of sorts for the mosquitoes...). While it appears that a fairly healthy individual probably won't have too many problems fending off West Nile Virus, the older and younger among us may be at the most risk.

I have seen the mosquito patrol truck thingy out a number of times this year. One of the pond sections by the Dry Creek walking path has what appears to be a mosquito catching contraption which apparently they're using to evaluate mosquitoes for disease. If it gets worse they may initiate blanket spraying citywide.

It may be just me but I seem to be getting bit more than usual this year and the bites seem bigger, redder and itch way longer than normal. While I've just been using the everyday, over the counter, anti-itch cream, my mother told me she had good luck with the Neosporin cream that has the anti-pain component mixed in.

The City is recommending you use an insect repellant with DEET in it. Adults aren't supposed to use a repellant that exceeds 50% DEET, children shouldn't use repellant that exceeds 30% DEET and babies under 2 months shouldn't use it at all. (Keep those 2 month olds out of the bug spray would ya!)

Light colored clothing is supposed to help deter mosquitoes. Don't wear perfumes or scented lotions if you plan to be outside although you may want to rub on some Avon Skin So Soft. I've had some people tell me this works really well and others say they thought it did nothing for them, but you can always give it a shot.

DON'T let water just sit around outside. I've noticed that if a little water collects in the bottom of the trashcan from rain and sits for a couple days, boom, here come the mosquitoes.

DO protect your dogs! Heartworm is a deadly disease and if you think the monthly pills are expensive, try having to pay for the treatment to cure your dog! Besides it's an incredibly painful and tedious process as well and may not work in the end.

For further information on fending off those pesky mosquitoes try Fight the Bite Colorado.