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The Massachusetts Department of Public Health today announced the second human case of West Nile virus in the state this year. The patient is a resident of Hampden County in his 60s who was confirmed with the virus by testing completed Sept. 21 by the state Public Health laboratory. The patient was hospitalized during his illness but has since been released.
“We are fortunate this year to have had relatively few people seriously ill from West Nile virus despite the fact that the virus in mosquitoes is widespread throughout Massachusetts,” said DPH Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine Brown. “However, the risk of infection will continue until we have a hard freeze. That means it continues to be important to take steps to avoid mosquito bites, including using repellents and clothing to reduce exposed skin, dumping standing water, and moving indoors when you notice mosquitoes biting you.”
The first human case of WNV, a resident of Bristol County in his 50s, was confirmed on Sept. 8.
In 2016 there were 16 human cases of WNV infection identified in Massachusetts. WNV is usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe disease. Most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms. When present, WNV symptoms tend to include fever and flu-like illness. In rare cases, more severe illness can occur.
People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes.
Avoid Mosquito Bites
Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)], or IR3535 according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.
Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitos. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning.
Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wear long-sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors to help keep mosquitos away from your skin.
Mosquito-Proof Your Home
Drain Standing Water. Mosquitos lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitos to breed by either draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change the water in birdbaths frequently.
Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitos outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.
More information, including all WNV and EEE positive results, can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page at mass.gov/dph/mosquito or by calling the DPH Epidemiology Program at 617-983-6800
