EASTON, Mass. — West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Massachusetts for the first time this year, the Department of Public Health said Wednesday.
The sample was collected July 11 in Easton. No human or animal cases of WNV or Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) have been found so far this year.
“West Nile virus is part of summer in Massachusetts, and we expect to see infected mosquitoes at this time of year,” Public Health Commissioner Margret Cooke said in a statement. “Now is the time to start taking steps to avoid mosquito bites. While WNV can cause serious illness, there are things that you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
WNV is typically transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. There were 11 human cases of the virus in 2021.
WNV symptoms typically include fever and flu-like illness. In rare cases, more severe illness can occur.
“Simple actions can help protect you from mosquito bites and the diseases they can cause,” 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 you 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.”
Residents are advised to take steps to avoid mosquito bites, such as using bug spray and wearing long sleeves; mosquito-proof their homes by getting rid of standing water and have working screens; and protect their pets from bites.
More information, including all WNV and EEE positive results, can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page at Mosquito-borne Diseases | Mass.gov, which is updated daily, or by calling the DPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800.
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