Important Announcement: QVHD is closely monitoring the community spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please direct all general questions to the state's hotline by dialing 2-1-1 or call 833-ASK-YNHH (833-275-9644). Anyone experiencing symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath) is strongly urged to contact their medical provider to seek treatment. For additional information, visit our information page at www.qvhd.org/coronavirus-preparedness or ct.gov/coronavirus.
You are here
Home › West Nile Virus AnnouncementWest Nile Virus Announcement
September 21, 2020
The Quinnipiack Valley Health District (QVHD) received confirmation that a North Haven Mosquito Trapping Surveillance Site, maintained by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) recently had a sample of mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The mosquito surveillance site is located at Quinnipiac River Park. The CAES routinely monitors this mosquito trapping site between June and October. QVHD recommends the below information on how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Mosquitoes bite during the day and night, therefore one of the most effective ways to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellent. Choosing an EPA-registered repellent ensures the EPA has evaluated the product for effectiveness. Always follow the product label instructions and reapply insect repellent as directed. Visit the EPA website to learn more about which repellent is right for you and your family: https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents
Another effective way to avoid WNV is to control mosquitoes outside and inside your home. Be sure to follow these tips from the CDC:
- Remove standing water where mosquitoes could lay eggs.
- Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out any items that hold water like tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, or trash containers. Mosquitoes lay eggs near water.
- Tightly cover water storage containers (buckets, rain barrels) so that mosquitoes cannot get inside to lay eggs.
- Use larvicides to treat large containers of water that will not be used for drinking and cannot be covered or dumped out.
- Install or repair and use window and door screens. Do not leave doors propped open.
For questions about WNV and humans, you can contact Quinnipiack Valley Health District, 203-248-4528, Monday – Friday: 8:30am- 4:30pm.
Sources:
