VOLUNTOWN, Conn. (WTNH) — Eastern Equine Encephalitis is turning up in more Connecticut communities, according to the Uncas Health District.
Mosquitoes in the Pachaug State Forest in Voluntown tested positive for the virus, health officials said.
Voluntown is one of six Connecticut towns where bugs with Eastern Equine Encephalitis have been found this year.
“Triple E” is a serious but rare illness transmitted by mosquitoes. Symptoms of the illness include having a high fever, headache, stiff neck and decreased consciousness. EEE usually increases around late summer and early fall.
To reduce the risk of getting bitten by mosquitos, the Uncas Health District gave a few tips:
- Reduce the time spent outside between dusk and dawn
- Be sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair
- Wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeve shirt when you are outdoors for a long period of time
- Wear light-colored clothing and tightly woven material
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors
- Consider using mosquito repellant when necessary
