The Connecticut Department of Public Health announced today that two Bridgeport residents, one person from Durham and one from Southington have been infected with the West Nile virus.This latest news brings the total to 10 confirmed cases in the state this season.

All four are over 50 years of age, and three of the four needed to be hospitalized. The Connecticut Department of Public Health stresses that it is important to take steps to avoid getting bitten by a mosquito. While some people, even though infected with the virus, show no symptoms at all, 1 in 150 people may develop permanent disabilities such as vision loss, paralysis and neurological issues.

Dusk and dawn are when mosquitoes are most active. The Connecticut Department of Public Health has many ways to protect yourself against these relentless insects such as:

  • Wear long pants, shoes, socks and long-sleeved shirts
  • If you go outdoors, use mosquito repellent containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, picardin, IR3535 or 2-undecanone
  • Make sure any screens on your windows are tight and in good condition

Click here for more mosquito avoiding tips.

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