EEE, West Nile virus detected in more Connecticut cities, towns

MERIDEN, CT (WFSB) – Mosquitos trapped earlier this month in Meriden, Stonington and Ledyard tested positive for the West Nile virus, local officials confirmed.

Meanwhile, Stonington mosquitos tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis, according to the Ledge Light Health District.

The mosquitos in Stonington were trapped on Sept. 11. The ones in Ledyard, on Sept. 13.

“In all cases, the positive mosquito was culiseta melanura, which is known to primarily bite birds but has been known to bite mammals,” said Jennifer Muggeo, director of health, Ledge Light Health District. “Positive EE and [West Nile virus] mosquitoes are normally expected during the summer months, and their presence serves as a reminder for community members to take standard precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.”

Meriden health officials said the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station in Meriden trapped the mosquitos in Falcon Park on Sept. 7.

“With the significant amount of rain we have had over the past 24 hours, please dump any standing water around your home,” said Lea Crown, director of Health and Human Services. “Also, make sure your door and window screens are in good repair, cover bare skin and use insect repellent when outside, especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.”

While most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms, about one in five people develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.

The CAES said some people over the age of 60 and those with certain medical conditions can develop a more severe illness that can affect the central nervous system, such as encephalitis or meningitis. Anyone who experiences anything like that should call their doctor.

In Connecticut, there have been two human cases of West Nile virus.

Last week, state officials confirmed the presence of EEE in mosquitos trapped in Hampton, Killingly, Thompson, Tolland, Voluntown, and Woodstock.

The threat of virus-carrying mosquitos will continue until the first hard frost.

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