West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes within the Bay State for the primary time this 12 months, in line with state well being officers who’re urging residents to make use of bug spray when outside.
The virus was confirmed on Tuesday by the Massachusetts State Public Health Laboratory in two mosquito samples collected final week in Quincy, the Division of Public Health reported.
“This is about the time of year that we expect to start finding West Nile virus in mosquitoes,” stated Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein.
“It is an important reminder that people should take steps to prevent mosquito bites,” Goldstein added. “WNV can cause serious illness and there are simple things that you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
The virus is often transmitted to people by means of the chunk of an contaminated mosquito. There have been six human circumstances of West Nile virus final 12 months. No human or animal circumstances have been detected to date this 12 months.
No proof of Jap Equine Encephalitis has been discovered to date this season. There have been no human or animal circumstances of EEE final 12 months.
Whereas West Nile virus can infect folks of all ages, folks over 50 are at increased threat for extreme illness. Most individuals contaminated with the virus can have no signs. When current, signs have a tendency to incorporate fever and flu-like sickness. In uncommon circumstances, extra extreme sickness can happen.
“This is the beginning of our mosquito season in Massachusetts,” stated State Epidemiologist Catherine M. Brown. “From now on, we expect mosquito populations to increase, and we will start to see more of them carrying WNV.
“Use 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 the mosquito-borne disease webpages on mass.gov so you know when and where WNV activity is occurring.”
The hours from nightfall to daybreak are peak biting instances for a lot of mosquitoes. Individuals are urged to think about rescheduling outside actions that happen through the night or early morning in areas of excessive threat.
Additionally, clothes might help cut back mosquito bites. Carrying lengthy sleeves, lengthy pants, and socks when outside will assist preserve mosquitoes away out of your pores and skin.
