West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes for the primary time this yr within the Bay State, in accordance with the Division of Public Health.
The confirmed virus in a mosquito pattern collected final week in Shrewsbury is “a little early,” DPH officers mentioned.
“Mid-June is earlier than we typically first find West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes in Massachusetts,” Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein mentioned in an announcement.
“WNV activity is very difficult to predict in advance, which is why the mosquito surveillance system is so important,” he added. “This early detection serves as a 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.”
WNV is often transmitted to people by way of the chew of an contaminated mosquito.
There have been 19 human instances of WNV within the Bay State final yr. The primary detection of WNV final yr was in late June.
No human or animal instances of WNV have been detected to this point this yr.
Presently, there’s no proof of Japanese equine encephalitis, one other arbovirus that happens sporadically in Massachusetts. There have been 4 human instances of EEE in 2024.
Whereas WNV can infect folks of all ages, folks over the age of fifty are at increased danger for extreme illness. Most individuals contaminated with WNV may have no signs.
When current, WNV signs have a tendency to incorporate fever and flu-like sickness. In uncommon instances, extra extreme sickness can happen.
“Even though this is a little early, it doesn’t necessarily mean we will have a bad season,” mentioned State Epidemiologist Catherine Brown.
“We recommend that everyone start using a mosquito repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient, wear clothing to reduce exposed skin, drain standing water, and repair window screens,” Brown added. “We also encourage everyone to make it a habit to check our online risk level maps for updates on when and where WNV activity is occurring.”
The hours from nightfall to daybreak are peak biting occasions for a lot of mosquitoes. Take into account rescheduling out of doors actions that happen through the night or early morning in areas of excessive danger.
Sporting lengthy sleeves, lengthy pants, and socks when open air will assist preserve mosquitoes away out of your pores and skin.
On-line danger degree maps may be discovered at www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-arbovirus-update.
