West Nile virus detected in southeastern Vermont

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(Host) Officials say West Nile virus has been detected for the first time this year in mosquitoes in southeastern Vermont.

The Department of Agriculture notified the Health Department this week that trapped mosquitoes in Westminster carried the disease.

The virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.

Only one out of five people who are infected with the virus experience symptoms and most are mild. But West Nile virus can cause high fever and lead to the development of a potentially fatal illness affecting the central nervous system, such as encephalitis or meningitis.

Four human cases have been reported in Vermont since 2000. The most recent human case was in 2003.

The Health Department is reminding Vermonters to reduce the risk of mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and pants… and avoiding outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, when the insects are most active.

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