Central Connecticut State University is taking some precautions due to cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in the state and that includes providing free mosquito repellant and shifting times for student athletic events.
The school is also canceling some events and turning off the outside sprinkler system, according to a message that was sent to students.
Two Connecticut residents have died after contracting Eastern Equine Encephalitis, or EEE, this season. The two residents were from East Lyme and Old Lyme.
Mosquitoes in several towns have tested positive for the virus and most have been in southeastern Connecticut. There have been no cases in New Britain, where CCSU is located.
The notice sent to students says that, although the area of greatest concern is eastern Connecticut, CCSU is taking precautions.
Free mosquito repellant is available to students, faculty, and staff at the Student Center, RECentral Office and events, Kaiser Hall, all residence halls, Health Services and East Hall.
School officials said they have postponed the Homelessness Awareness Cardboard Camp-out that was planned for Friday night.
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Soccer practices and matches for the women’s and men’s teams are starting earlier so they are finished by dusk and early morning outdoor practices for all athletes are shifted to after dawn.
“We’ve never done anything like this before. I don’t think we’ve ever got to this point," said CCSU Assistant Athletic Director Tom Pincince.
The notice said the outside sprinkler system has been turned off because stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitos.
School officials are urging students to minimize time outside between dusk and dawn, when mosquitos are most active, and to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts if they are outside during these times.
