Four more Connecticut residents have tested positive for West Nile virus infection, according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health. There have now been 10 cases this season.
Two of the patients are from Bridgeport, one is from Durham and one is from Southington.
The patients are 50 years old or older and three of the four required hospitalization.
The Bridgeport and Durham patients became ill in mid- to late-August and the Southington patient became ill in the second week of September, according to state officials.
“It’s a great time to be outside as we move into autumn, temperatures start to cool off and Connecticut’s fair season is in full swing, but it’s also important to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites,” DPH Commissioner Dr. Raul Pino said in a statement. “You can reduce your risk of WNV by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants to prevent mosquito bites. Severe illness can occur in people of any age, but children and people over 60 are at greater risk. The WNV season doesn’t end until the first hard frost of fall.”
