West Nile Virus Detected In Milford Mosquitoes

MILFORD, CT — Mosquitoes collected in Milford have tested positive for West Nile virus, marking the first mosquitoes in Connecticut to test positive for the virus this year, according to the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program.

The mosquitoes were trapped in Milford on June 29 and later tested by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES).

"The first West Nile virus positive mosquitoes of the season have been identified," CAES Medical Entomologist John Shepard said in a statement.

Shepard said recent rainfall, high humidity and warm temperatures are expected to increase mosquito activity and the spread of the virus in the coming weeks. The state will continue monitoring mosquitoes through October.

Officials urged residents to take steps to avoid mosquito bites, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

"We encourage everyone to take simple precautions, such as wearing mosquito repellent and covering bare skin, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active," CAES Chief Scientist Dr. Philip Armstrong said in a statement.

Residents are encouraged to use mosquito repellents with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved active ingredients, wear long sleeves and long pants when outdoors for extended periods, repair damaged window and door screens, and use mosquito nets when sleeping outdoors. Clothing treated with permethrin can also help reduce mosquito bites.

Last year, West Nile virus was detected in 230 mosquito samples collected from 37 Connecticut towns across six counties. Most activity occurred in Fairfield, Hartford and New Haven counties.

In 2025, six Connecticut residents were hospitalized with West Nile virus, and one person died. Most infections occur between July and September.

According to the state, most people infected with the virus have no symptoms, while some develop a mild illness. Severe illness is rare but can affect the brain or nervous system and may require hospitalization.