CT’s First Human Case of West Nile Virus Discovered in Waterbury

The year 2020 already sucks. Do we need another health issue to freak us out?

The year 2020 has delivered yet another somewhat worrisome 'gift' to Connecticut, this time in Waterbury, where a person has contracted the West Nile Virus according to the nbcconnecticut.com and the State Dept. of Public Health.

The Waterbury resident is between 40 and 49 years old, but may have contracted the virus in Newington or Weathersfield. The good news, according to Hospital of Central Connecticut Chief of Medicine and Hospital Epidemiologist, Dr. Joseph Garner, is that only a tiny fraction will come down with neurological complications. Eighty percent of individuals who contract the virus don't even show any symptoms, but if the infection takes hold, you could be in for a nasty ride.

The CDC says the best thing you can do to prevent yourself and your family from mosquito bites, is to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and use an EPA recommended insect repellent, which you can find by clicking this link.

If you've been bit by a mosquito, and over the next couple of days come down with a fever or other symptoms like body aches, joint pain, headache, or a rash, immediately seek out a health care professional.