West Nile Virus Spreading in Connecticut; Found in Stamford

STAMFORD, CT - The recent streak of hot weather has seen an expansion of the West Nile virus in the mosquito population in the state, according to experts who track it. One of the positive tests for the virus was found recently in Stamford.

The good news is there have been no human cases.

The virus has also been found in the most recent round of testing in Bethany, Bridgeport, Franklin, Greenwich, New Haven, Madison, West Haven, Waterford and Weston, and previously in Darien and New Canaan.

The Town of Madison Health Department urges residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites and mosquito-borne diseases. The warning comes as the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) has identified West Nile Virus (WNV) infected mosquitos in nearby towns.

Mosquito-borne illness is a threat to take seriously, especially from now until well into September. The current indicators suggest a very active season for WNV. Mosquito populations are building and will continue to do so, especially with the persistence of hot-muggy weather according to Medical Entomologist at the CAES. Surrounding states are also reporting early WNV activity.

No human or horse cases have been reported with WNV-associated illnesses in Connecticut at this time.

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, or when mosquitoes are most 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 small babies when outdoors.
• Consider the use of mosquito repellent, according to directions, when it is necessary to be outdoors.

For information on West Nile virus and how to prevent mosquito bites, visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program Web site at www.ct.gov/mosquito

Image via Shutterstock

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