1st Human Case Of West Nile Virus Identified In Stratford

Key Points:

• A Stratford resident aged 50-59 is hospitalized with West Nile virus (WNV) infection, marking the first human case in Stratford this year; four other cases have been reported statewide in Connecticut.
• The Stratford Health Department confirmed WNV antibodies in the patient, who became ill in late August and is still recovering in the hospital.
• Despite approaching fall, mosquito populations testing positive for WNV remain high in Stratford, prompting officials to urge continued preventive measures such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities at dawn and dusk.
• Stratford has treated over 5,000 catch basins with biological larvicide to reduce mosquito breeding, with plans for additional treatments as needed, and officials emphasize eliminating standing water around homes to prevent mosquito proliferation.
• West Nile virus has been detected annually in Connecticut since 1999, with most infections asymptomatic; however, older adults are at higher risk for severe illness, and residents are advised to maintain secure window and door screens and take other precautions to minimize mosquito exposure.