As autumn sweeps over New England, thousands of people will flock to the forests for some quality leaf peeping. But these gorgeous hues aren’t the only things we should look out for. According to experts, disease-carrying mosquitos could be making landfall in Connecticut again this year. Though the probability of infection remains low, it’s important to keep your eye out for these pesky insects. Read on to learn more about how you can stay safe and make this fall the best one yet.

Known as EEE, this mosquito-borne virus could be life-threatening.

EIisa Perales/AllTrails Although rare, this virus is worth paying attention to. Some people only experience flu-like symptoms like fever and chills. In these cases, the virus goes away on its own. But in severe situations, people can suffer brain inflammation and swelling. This could result in permanent neurological damage.

In 2019, this disease saw a significant increase. Several severe cases occurred right here in Connecticut.

Woody Wood/AllTrails Last year’s EEE outbreak was the largest the country had seen in 5 decades. Normally, the United States sees about 7 EEE cases per year. In 2019, that number jumped to 38, with 19 total deaths.

This year, experts have already found mosquitos carrying EEE.

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade/Flickr Experts discovered the first EEE-carrying mosquito in Stonington on August 5.

It’s difficult to predict what will happen during the 2020 season, but experts advise to err on the side of caution.

D. Sikes/Flickr The CDC recommends limiting your time outdoors at dawn and dusk.

When you do explore Connecticut’s woodland hiking trails, be sure to lather up with plenty of insect repellent.

Fairfax County/Flickr And always make sure your repellent is registered by the Environmental Protection Agency.

To eliminate indoor pests, make sure all windows are securely shut and eliminate any sanding water.

Photo by Bryan Bzdula/Getty Images

With the proper precautions, autumn in Connecticut will be just as magical as ever.

Shobeir Ansari/Getty Images To learn more about EEE in Connecticut, read this article by Yale Medicine.

After you’ve covered yourself in bug spray, how are you going to enjoy the fall season in Connecticut? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

EIisa Perales/AllTrails

Although rare, this virus is worth paying attention to. Some people only experience flu-like symptoms like fever and chills. In these cases, the virus goes away on its own. But in severe situations, people can suffer brain inflammation and swelling. This could result in permanent neurological damage.

Woody Wood/AllTrails

Last year’s EEE outbreak was the largest the country had seen in 5 decades. Normally, the United States sees about 7 EEE cases per year. In 2019, that number jumped to 38, with 19 total deaths.

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade/Flickr

Experts discovered the first EEE-carrying mosquito in Stonington on August 5.

D. Sikes/Flickr

The CDC recommends limiting your time outdoors at dawn and dusk.

Fairfax County/Flickr

And always make sure your repellent is registered by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Photo by Bryan Bzdula/Getty Images

Shobeir Ansari/Getty Images

To learn more about EEE in Connecticut, read this article by Yale Medicine.

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