The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) announced the first human case of WNV-associated illness identified in a Connecticut resident this season. The case is a male resident of Middlesex County and is between 30–39 years of age.

While this is not unusual for this time of year, as there were 6 human cases of WNV-associated illness identified in CT residents in 2025, this is an important reminder that preventing mosquito bites is the best way to reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection.

To reduce the risk of being bitten by a mosquito:

• Minimize time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• When it is necessary to be outdoors, use mosquito repellents containing an EPA-registered active ingredient, including DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. EPA registration of skin-applied repellent products indicates that they have been evaluated and approved for human safety and effectiveness when applied according to instructions on the label.
• Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active. Clothing should be light-colored and loose-fitting and made of tightly woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin.
• Wear clothing and gear treated with permethrin. Permethrin is an insecticide that kills or repels mosquitoes and ticks.
• Be sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair.
• When sleeping outdoors, use tents or mosquito netting in an unscreened structure. Treat camping gear with permethrin when possible.
• Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito nets when outside.

To reduce the number of mosquitos in and around your home:

• Remove standing water by emptying or changing water in bird baths, pet dishes, pots, used tires, gutters, and other water-holding containers at least once a week to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
• Install or repair and use window and door screens.
• Cover water storage containers (buckets, cisterns, rain barrels) with tight-fitting lids.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools. When pools are not in use, use pool covers and drain when necessary.

More tips for preventing mosquito bites and reducing mosquitos are available on the CDC’s website.

Most people infected with WNV do not develop symptoms, but the virus can cause serious illness, particularly in adults age 60 and older. If you develop symptoms such as a fever with headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash, contact your medical provider.