The West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Garfield County, according to a Wednesday news release. 

Certain mosquito species found in the county — especially in the western portion near Parachute, Battlement Mesa, Silt and Rifle — can carry and transmit the virus.

The virus typically circulates from June to September, or during mosquito season, and is found in some infected birds. Mosquitoes that bite these birds can then transmit the virus to humans. 

According to the CDC, about 8 in 10 people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms. However, others may experience body aches, joint pain and vomiting. In some severe cases, the virus can affect the central nervous system, causing symptoms such as disorientation, coma and vision loss. 

Last month, Boulder County Public Health and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment confirmed the first human death related to the West Nile virus in Colorado this year. 

Garfield County monitors adult mosquito populations by trapping and testing them weekly throughout the summer. Recent tests confirmed the presence of the virus, according to the release. 

“Mosquitoes are acquiring the virus from infected birds,” said Jannette Whitcomb, Garfield County Environmental Health Manager, in the release. “Our program collects mosquitoes to identify their type, and to test for the presence of West Nile virus. Mosquitoes in last week’s samples came back positive. This is an indicator that the community has an increased risk of contracting the virus if bitten by this particular species.”

Health officials urge residents to follow the “Four Ds” of prevention to reduce the risk of contracting West Nile virus: drain standing water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding, limit outside activity during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active, wear repellents such as DEET and wear long sleeves and pants.