NEW HAVEN, Conn. — A mosquito captured and tested for disease in New Haven this month came back positive for West Nile Virus, with researchers saying this first detection has come earlier than in other years.
The tested mosquito was captured on June 17 in Beaver Pond Park, the city's only testing area.
“The first West Nile virus positive mosquitoes of the season have been identified,” said John Shepard, Medical Entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES). “This is one of the earlier detections of virus recorded during the last 25 years of the statewide monitoring program."
Scientists at CAES said that increased rain and warm weather have boosted mosquito activity this season.
To avoid getting mosquito bites, researchers ask people to minimize the amount of time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. When outdoors at these times, wear shoes and socks, as well as light-colored long pants and long-sleeved shirts to keep mosquitoes away. Also, consider using mosquito repellant when necessary.
There are 108 mosquito-trapping sites in 88 Connecticut towns and cities. CAES also tests trapped mosquitoes for West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).
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