EEE mosquitoes discovered in Canterbury

New Haven, Conn./WTIC Radio - Mosquitoes infected with the eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus have been detected for the first time this season in Connecticut.

The mosquitoes were trapped in the town of Canterbjury on July 16th and are primarily bird-biters, according to the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station in New Haven.

“The detection of EEE virus in July is reason for concern as conditions are suitable for further build-up and spread of the virus in the coming weeks and months” said Dr. Philip Armstrong, Chief Scientist at CAES.

So far this year, West Nile virus has been discovered in mosquitoes trapped in 12 towns so far.

Officials at CAES continue to advise taking precautions when out when mosquitoes are most active, usually during dawn and dusk.

That included using insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants.