MANCHESTER, NH — West Nile Virus, which can be deadly for humans, was detected this week in mosquitoes in Manchester, health officials announced Wednesday. The positive batch was collected in the city July 16. It was the first time the virus has appeared in New Hampshire this year. Last year, the virus first appeared in August.

"Although the finding of WNV in the community is not unexpected, it is early in the season and a good time to remind residents to be vigilant in eliminating mosquito breeding areas and to take simple steps such as using effective mosquito repellent and wearing long pants and sleeves at dusk and dawn to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes," Manchester Public Health Director Tim Soucy said in a statement.



Humans infected with West Nile mostly experience a flu-like illness, though in some cases it can be deadly.