Community Corner

Mosquitoes Test Positive for Jamestown Canyon Virus in North Haven Park

Mosquitoes tested in Quinnipiac River Park show highest incidence of virus in the state.

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) released numbers today showing that sixteen mosquito samples collected from North Haven's Quinnipiac River Park tested positive for Jamestown Canyon Virus, the highest incidence in the state. 

104,593 mosquitoes were tested for West Nile virus (WNV), Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE), and Jamestown Canyon virus (JC) as part of a statewide sampling effort by the CAES. In North Haven alone, 2,515 mosquitoes were captured and processed by the Station. 

While the occurrence of JC in Quinnipiac River Park was the highest recorded in Connecticut, scientists from the CAES note that the majority of cases present with mild flu-like symptoms, and many people exposed to the virus avoid infection altogether. 

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In more serious cases, infection could lead to symptoms of viral meningitis or encephalitis, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. Such incidences would be reported to the state's Department of Health. 

According to John Shephard, an Assistant Scientist at CAES, the high incidence of the virus in North Haven could be connected to the area's large populations of white-tailed deer, the common host of carrier mosquitoes.

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Shephard added that the results are not surprising, considering the upswing in mosquito populations during June and July.

CAES recommends that hikers take precautions, such as wearing repellent, pants and long-sleeved shirts, to avoid being bitten. Additionally, the Station suggests avoiding areas with high mosquito counts during dawn and dusk.

No mosquitoes in North Haven tested positive for either EEE or WNV. Statewide, two mosquitoes tested positive for WNV, and 53 for JC.

For a full look at the results of the testing, click here.


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