Two viruses, Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile, have been detected at different places. The former has been found in two groups of bird-biting mosquitoes collected from Whiting.

One of the batches was from southern Addison County and the other one was collected from Vermont. For the first time this year, EEE virus has been found in southern Addison County. In the case of Vermont, it is the first detection of the virus since it was found in mosquitoes from Grand Isle in the middle of June.

West Nile Virus was detected in St. Albans. Both the viruses are communicable in nature. Since 2014, no case related to any of the two viruses has been reported till date in 2014. Erica Berl, infectious disease epidemiologist for the Vermont Department of Health, said that it has been confirmed now that both the viruses are circulating in Vermont this year.

"EEE can be a very serious disease and, although the risk of getting infected is low, it's not zero. No matter where you live - enjoy the outdoors but take precautions to fight the bite", said Berl.

Tips to fight the bite -

1. Avoid going out during dusk and dawn as mosquitoes are most active at this time.
2. Whenever you go out, take precautions to prevent mosquito bites like wear full-sleeve shirt and long pants.
3. Use mosquito repellents that are labeled as being most effective against mosquitoes. Experts shared that an effective mosquito repellent include DEET, picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus.
4. Cover outdoor play space with mosquito netting.
5. Repair any broken window pane to ensure mosquitoes always remain out.
6. Take initiative to remove collected water nearby your surroundings. Ensure that water does not collect in areas like rain gutters, wading pools and old tires.