The State Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced that the first case of Zika virus in Connecticut has been detected by its state laboratory.
An Aedes species mosquito that transmits the Zika virus. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) CDC photo
According to DPH, the patient, 60-69 years of age, traveled to a Zika-affected area and had onset of illness on the day of return in early March.
The patient’s illness was characterized by skin rash, conjunctivitis, fatigue, chills, headache, and muscle aches, an announcement said. The patient has been seen by a physician and is recovering.
In January, Gov. Dannel p. Malloy directed DPH to test for Zika virus. The tests were conducted at the DPH Laboratory, which was approved for and began testing for Zika virus on Feb. 29, the DPH said.
The steps the state took to deliver testing in the DPH Laboratory resulted in expedited results, according to the announcement.
“We encourage those concerned about symptoms to consult their doctor, particularly if they have traveled to an affected area and particularly if they are pregnant,“Malloy said.
To date, 258 cases of Zika have been reported in 34 states and the District of Columbia. Of those, 18 were pregnant women and another six were sexually transmitted.
In Connecticut, 198 samples have been received for testing, and 67 results have been received, the DPH said. Today’s result is the first positive test in Connecticut.
