West Nile Virus positive mosquitoes detected in Massachusetts

BOSTON (WWLP) – West Nile Virus has been detected in a recent sample of mosquitoes in Massachusetts for the first time this year.

According to the Massachusetts DPH, two virus-positive mosquito samples were collected on June 25 in the city of Quincy in Norfolk County.

“This is about the time of year that we expect to start finding West Nile virus in mosquitoes,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “It is an important reminder that people should take steps to prevent mosquito bites. WNV can cause serious illness and there are simple things that you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

Last year, there were six human cases of West Nile Virus in Massachusetts. No human cases have been detected so far this year.

The virus can infect people of all ages but people over the age of 50 are at a higher risk of infection. Symptoms include flu-like illness.

“This is the beginning of our mosquito season in Massachusetts. From now on, we expect mosquito populations to increase, and we will start to see more of them carrying WNV,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine M. Brown. “Use a mosquito repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient, wear clothing to reduce exposed skin, drain standing water, and repair window screens. We also encourage everyone to make it a habit to check the mosquito-borne disease webpages on mass.gov so you know when and where WNV activity is occurring.”

Tips to avoid mosquito bites:

• When outdoors, wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and socks.
• Use a repellent with DEET according to the instructions on the product label.
• Keep mosquitoes out of your house by repairing holes in screens and making sure screens fit tightly to doors and windows.
• Schedule outdoor events to avoid the hours between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Remove areas of standing water around your home twice a week to eliminate sources of mosquito breeding.

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