Mosquitoes With West Nile Virus Found In Manchester

MANCHESTER, NH — A batch of mosquitoes in Manchester became the first to test positive for West Nile Virus in New Hampshire this year. The batch was collected in Queen City on Aug. 21, according to the state's health officials.

"This is the time of the season that we can expect West Nile Virus to be identified in New Hampshire," said Benjamin Chan, the state's epidemiologist. "It is important for residents and visitors to take steps to prevent mosquito bites, as WNV and other arboviruses can be transmitted to humans from the bite of an infected mosquito. From this point in the season until there is a statewide mosquito-killing frost, the risk of infection by mosquito-borne viruses will increase."

Chan recommends that residents use effective bug spray containing 30 percent DEET, avoid being outdoors during dawn or dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. He also recommends that people remove any standing water from around their homes, to eliminate potential areas where mosquitoes may reproduce.

West Nile Virus was first identified in New Hampshire in 2000, according to N.H. Department of Health and Human Services. Symptoms typically appear within a week of being bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus. Many of the symptoms are flu-like, including fever, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. Many people may not have any symptoms or only develop very mild symptoms. A very small portion of people infected with West Nile Virus develop the more serious central nervous system disease, including meningitis or encephalitis.

The DHHS website provides additional information about West Nile Virus and way to protect oneself from contracting it.