The City of Hartford Department of Health and Human Services has issued this public health advisory today to help keep residents safe from West Nile Virus (WNV):
Although no human cases of WNV have been reported in the city, the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) has announced that mosquitoes trapped in Hartford have tested positive for the Virus.
“Especially in the wake of the heavy rains of Irene, we must remain vigilant to remove standing water that might harbor mosquitoes,” said Mayor Pedro E. Segarra.
“Although cooler weather is here, it is important to know that, until the first frost of the year, we are still in the high risk season for West Nile Virus,” stated Raul Pino, Acting HHS Director.
Experts recommend residents take the following precautions: Minimize time outdoors at dusk and dawn. Be sure doors and windows/screens are tight fitting and in good repair. Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts. Clothing material should be tightly woven. Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors. Consider using mosquito repellent when outside and always use according to instructions. When using DEET (the most widely used insect repellent) on children, use a product containing less than 10% DEET and wash treated skin after returning indoors.
You can also reduce mosquitoes around your home with the following measures: Dispose of water-holding containers, such as ceramic pots, used tires, tire swings. Drill holes in the bottom of containers such as those used for recycling. Clean clogged roof gutters. Turn over objects that may trap water when not in use such as wading pools and wheelbarrows. Change water in bird baths on a weekly basis. Clean and chlorinate swimming pools. Use landscaping techniques to eliminate areas where water can collect on your property.
For more information: http://www.dph.state.ct.us http://www.caes.state.ct.us http://dep.state.ct.us http://www.cdc.gov
