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Town of East Hartford Reminds Residents to Take Precautions Against West Nile Virus

Posted on: September 22, 2021 - 4:15pm
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East Hartford, CT – The Town of East Hartford is advising residents of the ongoing West Nile virus (WNV) activity across the state and including in the greater Hartford area. According to surveillance data, three Connecticut residents have tested positive for WNV to date.  WNV has also been detected in mosquitos trapped and tested from 34 Towns. Historically, August and September are the months of greatest risk for WNV infection, however, individuals are at risk of infection until mosquito activity normally ceases in October.

West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the United States. Most people (~80%) infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms. However, about 1 in 150 people infected with WNV will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

The East Hartford Health Department recommends residents to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites by:

  • Minimizing time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
  • Making sure doors and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair.
  • Wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active. Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin.
  • Using mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure and to protect small babies when outdoors.
  • Considering the use of mosquito repellent, according to directions, when it is necessary to be outdoors.

East Hartford continues to administer its mosquito control program by applying larvicide to known mosquito breeding grounds and periodically spraying affected areas of town. To speak with the Environmental Division regarding the Town’s mosquito abatement program, please contact the East Hartford Health Department at 860-291-7324.  For information on WNV, mosquito bite prevention, and latest data on WNV activity in the State, visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program web site at https://portal.ct.gov/mosquito.