Farmington, CT – August 27, 2024 – The Connecticut Mosquito Management Program has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus (WNV) in mosquitoes collected from a testing site in Farmington. This marks the first positive identification of the virus in Farmington this season. No human cases have been reported with WNV-associated illnesses acquired in Farmington and the risk level remains low at this time. According to the Connecticut Mosquito Management program, 180 human cases of West Nile virus, including four fatalities, have been reported in Connecticut residents since 2000.
West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. While many who contract the virus do not exhibit symptoms, some individuals may experience severe illness. Common symptoms of WNV include fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In severe cases, the virus can lead to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord). Individuals over the age of 60 and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for serious complications.
“We urge all residents to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites," said Jennifer Kertanis, Director of Health for the Farmington Valley Health District.
To reduce the risk of WNV infection, residents are urged to take the following precautions:
· Minimize time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
· Consider the use of mosquito repellents containing an EPA-registered active ingredient, including DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-methane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone, when it is necessary to be outdoors.
· Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active. Clothing should be light-colored, loose-fitting, and made of tightly woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin.
· Be sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair.
· Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure and to protect infants when outdoors.
The Connecticut Mosquito Management Program will continue to monitor and manage mosquito populations in the area. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about WNV activity and follow recommended guidelines to protect themselves and their families.
For more information on West Nile virus and mosquito control, please visit the Connecticut Department of Public Health’s website at https://portal.ct.gov/caes/mosquito-testing/introductory/state-of-connecticut-mosquito-trapping-and-arbovirus-testing-program or contact the Farmington Health Department. For frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding WNV, please visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website at https://portal.ct.gov/mosquito/diseases/west-nile-virus-faqs.