Burlington Spraying For Mosquitos After West Nile Discovery

BURLINGTON, MA -- The town is scheduled to spray for mosquitos on Thursday, following last week's discovery of the West Nile virus in mosquitos collected in Burlington. The town plans to spray in neighborhoods near Hope Street, Daniel Drive, Pinewood Avenue and Old Colony Road, as well as in the vicinity of Central Avenue, Glen Avenue, Heritage Way and Knollwood Courtt. All spraying will occur between dusk and 11:30.

Last week the Massachusetts Department of Public Health said mosquitos collected in Burlington tested positive for West Nile virus. The mosquitos were collected on August 15. No transmission to humans have been reported.

West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans by bites from mosquitos commonly found throughout Massachusetts. While about 75% of the people infected with West Nile experience no symptoms, about 20% of people develop a fever, headache, vomiting, or a rash. In rare cases the infection can be fatal. The virus is particularly dangerous for people over the age of 50.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health posted the following reminders on preventing mosquito bites:

• Use insect repellents
• Wear long-sleeved clothing
• Schedule outdoor activities to avoid the hours around dawn and dusk
• Repair damaged window screens
• Remove standing water from the areas around your home

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Patch file photo via Shutterstock.