Please take a moment to read this article and learn how to protect your self! This story is used with courtesy from our news partner WFSB Channel 3
HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) -- Mosquitoes in the capital city have tested positive for West Nile Virus.
The Hartford mayor’s office said on Thursday that mosquitoes trapped on Aug. 1 tested positive.
The mosquitoes were trapped at Keney Park.
“We do not have any reported West Nile infections in Hartford, but we take this positive test seriously, and we encourage residents to take basic steps to prevent mosquito bites,” said Mayor Luke Bronin. “Tonight, we have one of our free ‘Movies in the Park,’ in Keney Park, and our Health and Human Services team will be there with mosquito repellent to make sure residents are safe. Please report any potential West Nile virus infection to a health care professional. I want to thank the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station for their work to detect West Nile virus in Hartford.”
Also this month, the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station reported that West Nile Virus was found in East Haven on Kenneth Street, Stamford on Intervale Road, Chester at Cockaponset State Forest, and Voluntown.
"Most people get infected and don't even know that they are infected. It can be mile. We also know for some people it can be serious, so we want to make sure that if you can avoid it, avoid it," said Liany Arroyo, Director of Department of Health and Human Services.
It also said Eastern Equine Encephalitis was discovered in Voluntown at Mt. Misery as well as Pachaug Forest.
Preventing mosquito bites:
- Be aware that mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn and take preventative steps during that time.
- Be sure door and window screens are tight fitting and in good repair.
- Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods, or when mosquitoes are most active. Clothing should be light colored and made of tightly woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin.
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure and to protect small babies when outdoors.
- Use mosquito repellent, according to directions, when it is necessary to be outdoors.
Preventing mosquitoes at home:
- Dispose of water-holding containers such as ceramic pots, used tires, and tire swings.
- Drill holes in the bottom of containers such as those used for recycling.
- Clean clogged roof gutters.
- Turn over objects that may trap water when not in use such as wading pools and wheelbarrows.
- Change water in bird baths on a weekly basis.
- Use landscaping techniques to eliminate areas where water can collect on your property.
For more about West Nile Virus,click here.
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