Lexington Warns Of West Nile Virus

LEXINGTON, MA — The Town is warning residents after mosquitos tested positive for West Nile Virus around Middlesex County. A post on the town website didn't mention mosquitoes testing positive in Lexington, but still took the time to advise caution.

The Center for Disease Control says about 1 in 150 people who contract the virus become seriously ill. Read more CDC information about WNV.

Here are some tips posted by Lexington:

What YOU Can Do

1. Prevent mosquitoes from breeding by eliminating, covering or treating sources of standing water. Mosquitoes can lay eggs in as little as one inch of water. Consumer Reports (CR) advises that you "keep your gutters clean, and your birdbaths, old tires, wheelbarrows, and swimming pool covers free of standing water."
2. Wear insect repellant when outdoors — this also prevents tick bites, another source of disease.
   • See the CDC's list of safe and effective repellants.
   • Read CR's insect repellant ratings.
3. Use a fan when sitting outside - mosquitoes are very light, and don't fly well in a breeze. According to CR, that's much more effective than citronella candles.
4. Wear long sleeves and long pants. You can also buy clothing treated with permethrin (an insecticide), or treat your own clothing.
5. Keep mosquitoes outside by ensuring that your windows have screens, and repairing any holes in the screens.

Read more on the CDC website