Massachusetts Reports First human Case of West Nile Virus This season
Boston, MA – Massachusetts health officials announced the stateS first confirmed human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) this season on Tuesday. the patient is a woman in her 70s residing in Middlesex County, according to the Massachusetts Public Health Department.
West Nile Virus is spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While the majority of those infected experience no serious illness, symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, adn rash – mirroring those of the flu. In rare instances, WNV can lead to severe neurological illness or even death.
“West Nile Virus remains a serious public health concern in Massachusetts,with continued high levels of the virus detected in the mosquito population,” stated Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein, PhD. “Even as we move into September with cooler weather and the resumption of school,the risk of contracting WNV persists. Residents should continue to prioritize preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites.”
Currently, ten communities in Suffolk and Middlesex counties are considered to have a high risk of WNV transmission, while 193 municipalities across Berkshire, bristol, Essex, franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, and Worcester counties are classified as moderate risk.
Mosquito surveillance began in June, and to date, 319 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile Virus.Additionally, 18 tests have been conducted for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rarer but more severe mosquito-borne illness.
Health officials recommend the following precautions to minimize the risk of WNV infection:
Use insect repellent containing DEET, permethrin, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
* Avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
Between 2014 and 2023, eight fatalities attributed to West Nile Virus were recorded in Massachusetts.
