Mosquitoes trapped in West Haven have tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to state officials.
The mosquitoes were trapped on June 29 as part of the State of Connecticut Mosquito Management Program. The West Nile virus season typically begins in late June to mid-July and continues through September. These are the first positive test results this season.
Residents should take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites, such as covering bare skin and wearing insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
Most people who are infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms, but less than one percent can develop serious, sometimes fatal neurological illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
West Nile virus has been detected in the state every year since 1999. Since 2000, there have been 131 human cases of West Nile in Connecticut and three fatalities.
The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the Connecticut Agriculture Station, Department of Public Health, Department of Agriculture, Department of Pathobiology at the University of Connecticut are all involved in the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program. There are 91 mosquito trapping stations across 72 towns throughout the state.
For more information about West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website here.
