The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment said today that first death from West Nile Virus happened in Weld County. A 79-year-old died from West Nile virus this year on September 7.

The identity of the woman was not stated by the department but the health department in Greeley said that she had been sick since late August and was hospitalized at the time of her death.

In Colorado there have been 40 confirmed cases of WNV so far this year including eight in Weld County. On July 2 after a 53-year-old woman became ill the first confirmed case this year was reported in Weld County.

Dr. Mark Wallace, executive director of the Weld County health department, stated, "Even though each year we expect to lose a few people to West Nile infection, we are always saddened when it occurs."

He urged people to be cautious despite Colorado nearing the end of mosquito season and said that repellants and proper clothing while outdoor should be made a habit.

The health department added, “West Nile is carried by mosquitoes and are still very active and will be as long as the weather is warm."