West Nile Virus Detected in Mosquito Samples in Arlington

ARLINGTON, MA — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced Thursday night that West Nile virus has been detected in mosquito samples in Arlington.

Arlington Director of Health and Human Services Christine Bongiorno reports that according to the MDPH, West Nile virus was found in samples taken in Boston and Waltham. The MDPH has raised the risk level for human infection in the communities of Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Cambridge, Newton, Waltham and Watertown from low to moderate.

“While this is not cause for serious alarm, residents should be aware that West Nile Virus was found in mosquitoes in Arlington and take extra steps to avoid contact with the insects,” Bongiorno said. “Stay indoors if you can during peak hours and take proactive measures at your home to keep mosquitoes outside.”

The MDPH reports that although there have been no human cases of West Nile virus infection reported in the state this year, the current warm weather and pattern of precipitation events have produced large mosquito populations among the species most likely to spread the virus.

According to Bongiorno's announcement, West Nile virus is most commonly transmitted through mosquito bites infected with the virus and there were 10 human cases of the virus in 2015. People over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe infection.

The Arlington Health Department offers these tips outlined by the DPH.

Mosquito-proof your home

• Drain standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes 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 water in bird baths frequently.
• Install or repair screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.

Avoid mosquito bites

• Apply insect repellent when outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus. DEET products should not be used on infants under 2 months old 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 3 years.
• Be aware of peak mosquito hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning.
• Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. Wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.