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Mosquito Trapped In Fairfield Tests Positive For West Nile Virus

FAIRFIELD, Conn. -- For the first time this year, a mosquito trapped in Fairfield has tested positive for the West Nile virus, according to the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program.

Mosquitos in Fairfield have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

Mosquitos in Fairfield have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

This year, nine other municipalities — West Hartford, Hartford, Darien, Stamford, Easton, Bridgeport, Stratford, Newington, and West Haven — have also reported West Nile Virus positive mosquitoes from June 13 through Aug. 16. 

To date, no Connecticut residents have been identified with illnesses related to West Nile virus infections. 

“We want to encourage residents to reduce their risk of mosquito borne illness by taking the appropriate precautions,” said Fairfield Director of Health Sands Cleary.

Cleary recommends that resident who must be outdoors at dawn and at dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Use insect repellant, but be sure to carefully follow the manufacturer’s directions. 

The department also recommended that you eliminate standing water from your property by emptying water that collects in unused birdbaths, boats, buckets, tires, unused pools, roof gutters and other containers. 

Symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, headache, body aches, skin rash, and swollen lymph nodes. Severe symptoms may include stiff neck, sleepiness, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, and paralysis. Most cases of West Nile virus infection are mild.

For more information on reducing your risk of getting bitten, visit the Town of Fairfield Health Department website here

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