Mosquito Carrying West Nile Virus Discovered in Natick

By Susan Petroni (Patch staff)

A mosquito carrying the West Nile Virus was discovered in Natick, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

The mosquito carrying the virus was among a sample collected on Sept. 17.

The Commonwealth has identified more than 150 mosquitoes with the virus this year, and three human cases of West Nile Virus in the state.

West Nile Virus can infect people of all ages but people over age 50 are at higher risk for severe disease, according to a press release from the Division of Public Health.

Symptoms of the West Nile usually appear within a week after being bitten by an infected mosquito, although many people can be infected and not develop any symptoms, or only develop very mild symptoms.

Symptoms can include flu-like illness including fever, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue.

A very small percentage of individuals infected with West Nile can go on to develop more serious central nervous system disease, including meningitis or encephalitis.

If you or someone you know is experiencing flu-like symptoms, including fever and headache, contact your local medical provider.