Massachusetts reports first West Nile virus positive mosquito sample this year

Massachusetts health officials on Thursday reported the first West Nile virus positive mosquito sample of the year, as they urged people to use bug spray when outside.

The state Department of Public Health announced that West Nile virus has been detected in a mosquito sample from Medford. The sample was collected on Tuesday.

No human or animal cases of West Nile virus or Eastern Equine Encephalitis have been detected so far this year.

“The first WNV infected mosquito of the season is always a signal that it is time to start taking steps to avoid mosquito bites,” said DPH Acting Commissioner Margret Cooke. “WNV is part of summer in Massachusetts and as we head into this long holiday weekend, it is important to remember that while WNV can cause serious illness, there are simple things that you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

West Nile virus is usually transmitted to people when they get bitten by an infected mosquito.

There were eight human cases of West Nile virus in the Bay State last year. In 2018, there were 49 human cases of West Nile virus infection in Massachusetts — the greatest number of cases the state has ever had in a single year.

While the virus can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at a higher risk for severe disease. Most people infected with the virus will have no symptoms.

When present, virus symptoms tend to include fever and flu-like illness. In rare cases, more severe illness can occur.

“These simple actions can help protect you from mosquito bites and the diseases they can cause,” said Catherine Brown, a state epidemiologist. “The tools for prevention include using a mosquito repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient according to the directions on the label, wearing clothing to reduce exposed skin when weather permits, draining standing water to prevent mosquito breeding, and repairing window screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home.”

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/3hcFds2