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West Nile Virus Detected in Madison Mosquito

Recent lab test results have shown some mosquitoes along the shoreline have tested positive for the West Nile Virus (WNV) including one mosquito in Madison. Local health officials have encouraged residents to take the necessary precautions when spending time outdoors this season.

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) does the testing of mosquitoes and found mosquitoes in Madison and New Haven, among other towns and cities that recently tested positive for the virus. As of July 26, 17 of the 93 CAES mosquito traps located in Connecticut towns have had positive test results for WNV according to the CAES.

According to the report, the one mosquito found in town was identified at the testing site of Cedar Swamp on Route 80. Following the release of the data late last week, the Town of Madison Health Department sent out a release urging residents to take the necessary precautions when outdoors.

“Mosquito-borne illness is a threat to take seriously during summer until well into September,” the release read. “Current high levels of trapped mosquitoes and field surveillance surveys suggest a very active season for WNV. Mosquito populations are building and will continue to do so, especially with the persistence of hot muggy weather according to [the] medical entomologist at the CAES. Surrounding states are also reporting early WNV activity.”

The only case detected in Madison has been in a mosquito; there have been no human or horse-related reports this year.

The department also released a list of good practices to protect yourself against mosquito-born illnesses including wearing shoes, socks, and long pants when outside for extended periods of time, minimizing time spent outdoors at night, considering the use of repellents, and making sure all window and door screens are in good condition.

For information on West Nile virus and how to prevent mosquito bites, visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website at www.ct.gov/mosquito or contact Madison Health Department.