Mosquitoes in Bridgeport, Connecticut, have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), according to the State of Connecticut Mosquito Management Program. The mosquitoes were trapped on June 11, marking the first WNV-positive mosquito pool identified this year by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES).
John Shepard, a medical entomologist at CAES, said, “The first West Nile virus positive mosquitoes of the season have been identified.” He noted that this detection is one of the earliest recorded in the last 25 years of monitoring. Dr. Philip Armstrong, Chief Scientist at CAES, added, “We will continue to closely monitor mosquitoes for early virus amplification.” He also mentioned that recent weather conditions are likely to increase mosquito activity and WNV buildup.
Residents are advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites by minimizing outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours at dusk and dawn. Using EPA-registered mosquito repellents and wearing protective clothing are recommended measures. Other precautions include ensuring screens on doors and windows are secure and using mosquito nets when necessary.
The response to mosquito-borne diseases in Connecticut involves several agencies, including the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), CAES, the Department of Public Health (DPH), the Department of Agriculture, and the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL) at UCONN. These organizations work together to monitor mosquito populations and assess public health risks.
CAES operates 108 mosquito-trapping stations across 88 municipalities in Connecticut. Traps are set regularly and tested for viruses like WNV. Positive results are reported to local health departments and published on the CAES website.
For more information on WNV prevention and current test results, residents can visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program’s website.
Information from this article can be found here.
