Confirmed Case of West Nile Virus in an East Hartford Resident

East Hartford, CT - The Town of East Hartford is advising residents of the first confirmed case of West Nile virus (WNV) in an East Hartford resident this year. The individual is an adult resident that recently experienced symptoms consistent with WNV and is recovering. This is the second confirmed case of WNV in the State of Connecticut so far this year.

“It is important for residents to take precautions that reduce your risk of mosquito bites and exposure to WNV infection,” said Mayor Walsh. “Residents are advised to use insect repellent according to directions while enjoying time outdoors, especially while outside during dusk and dawn when mosquitos are more active.”

West Nile virus has been detected in Connecticut every year since 1999 and is the most prevalent mosquito-borne disease in the United States.  Most people infected with the virus do not develop symptoms; about one in five develop West Nile fever.  General symptoms may occur two to 14 days after infection and can include fever, headache, rash, swollen lymph nodes, malaise and eye pain.  An estimated one in 150 people infected with the virus develop a severe illness that affects the central nervous system.  Persons at higher risk of experiencing severe illness include persons over 60 years of age and persons with compromised immune systems.  Severe symptoms may include high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, convulsions and muscle weakness.   If you or a family member think you may have symptoms suggestive of WNV, talk with your health care provider.

“Although the Town continues to administer its mosquito control program by treating town-owned properties, the general public are encouraged to be vigilant in eliminating standing water on your own properties to reduce mosquito breeding sites,” said Director of Health Laurence Burnsed.  “The risk of WNV infection will remain as long as weather conditions are favorable for mosquito activity.”  Residents can eliminate standing water by:

• Check your property at least weekly for sources of standing water and dump them out (e.g., wheelbarrows, pails, paint cans, children’s toys, clogged gutters, flower pots, etc.);
• Flush birdbaths and wading pools weekly;
• Swimming pool filtering systems should be maintained and in good working order;
• Seal or cover with screens openings of standing water sources (septic tanks, roof gutters, rain barrels).
• Ponds and stagnant water that do not support fish, frogs or other amphibians that eat mosquito larvae may be treated with a biological control agent, or “mosquito dunks” that contain larvicide.  These dunks are available at hardware stores, home improvement centers, online, and can be purchased at the health department for $10 for a pack of 20.  Mosquito dunks can be placed in standing water every few weeks to prevent mosquitos from breeding in these areas.

For more information about WNV and mosquito bite prevention, please visit the East Hartford mosquito control page (Mosquito Program | easthartfordct).