Mosquitoes collected in Swanton,VT have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis at the Vermont Department of Health Laboratory. When the virus is spread to humans through mosquito bites, most people don’t get sick, but people who do get sick experience a flu-like illness with fever, chills, body aches, and joint pain. Illness can be quite serious in some people, causing inflammation of the brain, hospitalization and possibly death.
Take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and to protect yourself:
- Wear long sleeves and long pants when you’re outside.
- Limit the amount of time you spend outdoors at dawn and dusk.
- Use EPA-registered insect repellant.
- Cover cribs, stroller, and baby carrier with mosquito netting.
- Fix holes in your screens and make sure they are tightly attached to doors and windows.
- Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes like to breed.
Learn about what works when it comes to mosquito bite prevention: www.HealthVermont.Gov/Mosquito