First West Nile Detection in MA This Year is in Worcester

WORCESTER, MA—The West Nile virus was detected in mosquitoes in Worcester, the first time it has been detected in the state this year.

The virus was confirmed by lab testing in three samples collected in the city on July 1, and announced by the state's Department of Public Health on Thursday.

The virus, which is most commonly transmitted to humans by mosquitoes, is an "expected finding" and doesn't pose an elevated risk.

“This is an expected finding at this time of year and given the heat and dry conditions we have been experiencing, we are expecting to see more and more WNV activity,” said DPH State Epidemiologist Dr. Al DeMaria in a release. “Tools for prevention include using a mosquito repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient according to the directions on the label, wearing clothing to reduce exposed skin when weather permits, draining standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and repairing window screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home.”

There haven't been any cases of West Nile virus or Eastern equine encephalitis so far this year.

To avoid mosquito bites, it's recommended to use a bug repellant or protective clothing. According to the Center for Disease Control, there are no medications or vaccines available for treatment or prevention. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms. Less than 1 percent of infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, neurologic illness, according to the CDC.

In 2015, there were ten human cases of WNV infection identified in Massachusetts, said the Massachusetts DPH. While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe disease. Most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms. When present, WNV symptoms tend to include fever and flu-like illness. In rare cases, more severe illness can occur.

Photo via Shutterstock