Multiple states warn on West Nile virus risk amid peak period

At least eight state health departments have cautioned residents over West Nile virus risk in the last week amid a seasonal peak and cases in humans and animals.

The virus is often spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, with cases typically occurring from summer through fall. There are no medications or vaccines for West Nile virus and officials say the best way to avoid infection is by preventing mosquito bites. Dr. Philip Armstrong, a medical entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, reported a late-season surge in infected mosquitoes, noting that the risk of contracting West Nile virus will continue until October, when mosquito activity ends. The state reported a third resident, aged 50-59 of Hartford, infected with the virus. The resident is recovering after experiencing encephalitis, officials said.