Wallingford Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus

WALLINGFORD, CT — Mosquitoes trapped from a site on South Elm Street in Wallingford have tested positive for the West Nile Virus, the Wallingford Health Department announced.

It is common to identify mosquitoes positive for West Nile Virus at this point in the early fall season, according to Eloise Hazelwood, Director of Health in Wallingford. Hazelwood said standard precautions should always be taken to reduce the exposure to the bite of a mosquito.

“It is not necessary to cancel all outside activities,” Hazelwood said in a press release. “When possible, limit outside activities, especially near wooded areas, one hour before dawn and one hour after it starts to get dark. If you are outside during this time period, it is recommended to wear long sleeves/pants and bug spray (mosquito repellant). Young children should not use a product containing more than 15 percent DEET directly on the skin and adults should not use a product containing more than 30 percent of DEET directly on the skin.”

Symptoms for West Nile Virus are generally mild, flu-like illness. If you have any questions concerning possible illness, call your medical provider directly, Hazelwood said.

For more information on West Nile Virus, or any questions concerning prevention, call the Health Department at 203-294-2065 or visit the state Department of Public Health website here.

Image via Shutterstock

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