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Researchers have detected the presence of a mosquito-borne disease, affecting more animals than humans in Connecticut, officials said Monday afternoon.
Researchers and scientists at the state's agricultural experiment station announced that four mosquitoes tested positive for a serious mosquito-borne disease called Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).
The researchers said one of the mosquito-infected EEEs was in Hampton in mid-September and another 3 were in North Stonington last week.
"The summer with heavy rains and then a warmer fall is causing a significant increase in the mosquito population – numbers are really rising and above average," said Dr. Philip Armstrong, a researcher at the station. of agricultural experimentation of the state.
Dr. Armstrong told Channel 3 that increased mosquito activity is not unexpected.
"The mosquitoes are active," said Dr. Armstrong. "And although the number decreases with cold weather, they are still active in biting people."
Mr. Armstrong stated that EEE is generally found in rural areas and that, while horses are more prone to infection and disease symptoms, humans can contract it, although it is more rare.
A human fatality of EEE was reported 5 years ago.
"The death rate is quite high, about 30% of people who develop this disease and are hospitalized die of this infection. We had one in 2013, otherwise a healthy individual, "said Dr. Armstrong.
The state agricultural experimental station operates 71 stations throughout the state monitoring the activity of mosquitoes and potentially harmful viruses.
Channel 3 spoke to Dr. Virginia Bieluch of the Central Connecticut Hospital, who said that EEE symptoms in men often began to be mild before worsening.
"The most feared complication of this infection is an inflammation of the brain called encephalitis," said Dr. Bieluch.
"Patients will have high fever, chills, and it can progress to epileptic seizures and even coma."
Officials recommend using an insect repellent and wearing long clothes to go hiking or to spend time outdoors.
The researchers said the mosquitoes were active until the first frost.
Copyright 2018 WFSB (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
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