First Human Case of West Nile Virus Identified in Connecticut for 2016

The first human case of the West Nile virus has been identified in Connecticut this year. 

The Milford resident is in their 70s and remains hospitalized after becoming ill during the fourth week of August with encephalitis.

Department of Public Health (DPH) officials said the person did not travel outside of the state before becoming ill. 

"Using insect repellent, covering bare skin and avoiding being outdoors during the hours of dusk and dawn are effective ways to help keep you from being bitten by mosquitoes," Dr. Raul Pino, commissioner of DPH, said.

West Nile virus has been detected in the state every year since 1999. During 2015, it was detected in mosquitoes collected in 24 towns. Last year, 10 confirmed human cases of West Nile were reported for residents in Bridgeport, Fairfield, Milford, New Haven and Shelton. 

More on mosquitoes and protecting against them is on the state department's website

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