Mosquitoes with West Nile virus detected at sub base

Groton — The Naval Submarine Base environmental team plans to spray pesticides after West Nile virus was detected in a batch of mosquitoes recently collected near Perimeter Road.

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, which announced the detection of the virus in a Facebook post on Thursday evening, said the sub base will continue minimizing mosquito breeding with seasonal pesticide spraying at several locations, including the North Lake recreation area.

CAES noted that only one in 500 mosquitoes carries West Nile virus, which is considered a seasonal epidemic in the Northeast. Symptoms of the virus, including mild flu-like symptoms, last three to six days and manifest about three to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, CAES said. Anyone suffering severe or persisting symptoms is encouraged to visit their primary care doctor.

CAES added that the presence of mosquitoes infected with the virus on the base and throughout Connecticut is “nothing new,” but urged several precautions including minimizing time outdoors at dusk and dawn; ensuring door and window screens are tight-fitting; wearing pants and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors; and using mosquito repellent.

For more information on West Nile virus and mosquito management, check portal. ct.gov/mosquito.

Clinic patrons also may contact the Naval Branch Health Clinic’s Preventive Medicine Unit at (860) 694-4190.