According to state researchers, the West Nile virus was discovered in mosquitos in Meriden.
The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station made the discovery, according to the State Mosquito Management Program, which notified the Meriden Department of Health and Human Services.
On August 16, the mosquitoes were tested at Falcon Park.
High fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis are all symptoms of severe illness.
“I ask everyone to help prevent mosquito bites by removing standing water around your home, making sure your door and window screens are in good repair, and covering bare skin and using insect repellent when outside – especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active,” says Lea Crown, Director of Health and Human Services.
The Meriden Department of Health and Human Services advises residents to do the following to reduce their chances of being bitten by mosquitoes:
- Spend as little time outside as possible between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Check that the screens on your doors and windows are tight and in good condition.
- When spending extended periods of time outside or when mosquitoes are most active, wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Clothing should be light in colour and tightly woven to keep mosquitos away from the skin.
- When sleeping outside or in an unscreened structure, use mosquito netting to protect small children.
- When it is necessary to be outside, consider using mosquito repellent as directed. Follow the product’s application instructions.
