August 13, 2014

Mosquito Tests Positive for West Nile Virus

On July 22, 2014, the Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station and the Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that a mosquito tested positive for West Nile virus in Connecticut, according to the Hartford Courant.  This is the first detection of West Nile in the state this year, out of 144,000 mosquitoes caught and tested so far.   DPH issued a reminder to residents that they can reduce their risk of mosquito bites by:
  • minimizing time outdoors between dusk and dawn;
  • making sure door and window screens are tight fitting and in good repair;
  • wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors for long periods or when mosquitoes are most active; and
  • using mosquito repellent when outdoors.