Weather Gives Rise to Mosquito, West Nile Concerns

With the recent hot weather, local concerns about mosquitos and West Nile virus are once again on the rise. In an announcement this week to local media outlet, Wakefield/Melrose/Reading Board of Health Director Ruth Clay provided the following information:

Mosquito trapping and testing began June 17th through our local mosquito control program. Check your risk levels throughout the season by going to the website www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito and clicking on risk levels.

Establish good habits now to minimize your exposure to mosquitos and the diseases they carry:

• Pick a repellent with an EPA-approved active ingredient

• Use long sleeves to cover up when possible

• Repair screens

• Remove standing water to help reduce mosquito populations (bird baths, tires, lawn ornaments)

• Teach children to be aware of mosquito activity around them and avoid it