- Details
- Category: Current Issue
BROOKLYN — The Northeast District Department of Health (NDDH) is reminding residents to take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) are two diseases transmitted by infected mosquitoes that are of particular concern in the late summer and fall.
The State Mosquito Management Program reports that an increasing number of mosquitoes trapped by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station are testing positive for WNV and EEE.
Both WNV and EEE can cause severe disease in humans.
While WNV infections are usually not fatal, patients who develop meningitis or encephalitis may suffer long lasting symptoms of the nervous system.
EEE is one of the most severe mosquito-transmitted diseases in the country. It is a rare but potentially deadly disease.
A fatal human infection of EEE in eastern Connecticut was recorded in 2013.
Horses and other animals can also contract WNV and EEE.
Horse owners are reminded to review vaccination records with their veterinarians to ensure that EEE and WNV vaccinations are current and their horses are protected during the mosquito season.
Residents of Connecticut are at highest risk of acquiring WNV and EEE infections in August and September when the number of infected mosquitoes peaks.
To help residents lower their risk of acquiring mosquito-borne illnesses, NDDH developed the SWAT campaign that offers tips to avoid being bitten.
“SWAT is an easy acronym to remember to prevent mosquito bites,“ said Susan Starkey, NDDH Director of Health.
“Screens on doors and windows should be tight-fitting and in good repair; Wear protective clothing such as shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirts to cover bare skin; apply insect repellent according to instructions when going outdoors and be particularly careful at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
"Most importantly, Toss any standing water that may be collecting on your property. Water in wading pools, bird baths, buckets, barrels, flower pots, pet dishes, and tire swings should be changed or emptied regularly.
"Clogged roof gutters should be cleaned. These simple steps can help you reduce the risk for you and people you care about.”
.