GRAND JUNCTION – Health officials say the West Nile virus has been found in mosquitoes in Mesa County.

The county health department announced the discovery Wednesday but didn’t say specifically where the mosquitoes were found.

Mosquitoes infected with the virus also were found in Weld and Boulder counties this week.

Weld County officials said the overall threat remained low but noted the virus had showed up earlier this year than in recent years.

Humans can contract the virus from mosquito bites.

Initial human symptoms can include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, weakness and rash. More severe symptoms can include stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, vision loss, paralysis and death.

Udall asks for inquiry at Junction VA hospital

GRAND JUNCTION – Sen. Mark Udall wants the Veterans Affairs Department inspector general to investigate the Grand Junction VA hospital, saying employees there are complaining of a “toxic, hostile work environment.”

The Daily Sentinel of Grand Junction reports the Colorado Democrat asked for the investigation Tuesday. Udall says current and former hospital employees also made allegations of mismanagement and ineffective oversight.

He says the employees claimed senior administrators overruled medical-care decisions to reduce costs and that handling of medical waste was inadequate.

Hospital spokesman Paul Sweeney said, “our focus is ensuring that we don’t compromise any possible future investigation,” and the VA is urging veterans, family members and employees to report any concerns.

The VA is planning a follow-up review of the hospitals.

Associated Press