West Nile: First Human Case In Massachusetts Of 2017

The first human case of the deadly West Nile virus was recently detected in Bristol County, the state Department of Public Health announced Friday. The patient, who was infected through a mosquito bite, is between 50 and 60 years old. The patient was still hospitalized as of Friday.

The patient was likely bitten by an infected mosquito in mid-August, according to state Veterinarian Catherine Brown. Mosquitoes across Massachusetts this year have tested positive for West Nile as well as the equally deadly Eastern Equine Encephalitis. (Sign up for free daily newsletters and breaking news alerts from Massachusetts Patch sites.)

“There have been so many WNV infected mosquitoes identified this year throughout the Commonwealth that the risk is widespread and ongoing," Brown said in a statement. "That means that this year, it is extremely important to take steps to avoid mosquito bites including using repellents, using clothing to reduce exposed skin, dumping standing water, and moving indoors when you notice mosquitoes biting you.”

State health officials said preventing mosquito bites is key and said people can protect themselves from mosquitoes with the following tips:

• Using insect repellents
• Wearing long-sleeved clothing
• Scheduling outdoor activities to avoid the hours around dawn and dusk
• Repairing damaged window screens
• Removing standing water from the areas around your home

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