West Nile Virus Detected In Mosquitoes From Burlington

BURLINGTON, MA — West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitoes collected in Burlington on Aug. 1, according to the state Department of Public Health.

The virus can affect people of all ages, but those 50 and over are at the highest risk of severe disease. The virus is typically transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes.

Most people who are infected with West Nile Virus do not experience any signs or symptoms, according to officials. In some cases, people will experience a headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and body aches which can last for a few days or several weeks but usually go away on their own.

However, in rare cases, the virus can cause serious symptoms including high fever, severe headache, confusion, lack of coordination, and muscle paralysis or weakness, officials said. Anyone with serious symptoms should get medical help immediately.

A mosquito collected from Waltham on the same date also tested positive for the virus. Last month, a mosquito collected from Watertown also tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The risk for the virus in Boston was upgraded from low to moderate in late July.

See related: Why West Nile Virus Risk Level In Boston Has Been Upgraded