Mosquitoes Test Positive For West Nile Virus In Meriden

MERIDEN, CT — Mosquitoes that tested positive for West Nile virus have been found in Meriden, officials announced Tuesday.

The State Mosquito Management Program notified Meriden health officials Monday that the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station has identified West Nile virus infected mosquitoes in Meriden.

The mosquitoes were identified from the Falcon Park testing site on Aug. 15, according to officials.

“I ask everyone to prevent mosquito bites by eliminating standing water around your home, making sure your door and window screens are in good repair, and covering bare skin and using insect repellent when outside – especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active,” said Lea Crown, Meriden director of health and human services.

While most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms, about one in five people develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash, according to a news release.

“Most people with this type of West Nile virus disease recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months,” the news release states. “Some populations, such as those persons over 60 and those with certain medical conditions, can develop a more severe illness affecting the central nervous system such as encephalitis or meningitis. Symptoms of severe illness include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. See your healthcare provider if you develop the symptoms described above.”

To reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, residents should:

• Minimize time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Be sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair.
• Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active. Clothing should be light colored and made of tightly woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin.
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure and to protect infants when outdoors.
• Consider the use of an EPA-approved mosquito repellent and apply according to directions when it is necessary to be outdoors

For more information on West Nile Virus and how to prevent mosquito bites, visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website here.