Worcester West Nile Threat Rises: Health Officials

WORCESTER, MA — Autumn is officially here, but the mosquitoes don't know that.

Summer's most hated pests are still very active right now in the Worcester area, and local health officials on Thursday raised the West Nile virus (WNV) risk level from "low" to "moderate."

WNV has emerged as the biggest mosquito-borne threat in recent months with seven cases detected statewide in humans. At least two mosquitoes have tested positive for WNV in Worcester this year, and both were trapped in the Burncoat area.

No cases of the more deadly Eastern Equine Encephalitis have been found in humans this year.

City officials are urging residents to take a few key precautions to prevent WNV infections:

• Avoid going outdoors at peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk
• If you do go out, wear long sleeves and pants and use mosquito repellent containing DEET
• At home, make sure your screens are in good shape, and drain any standing water that accumulates on your property (mosquitoes breed in it)

Learn more about WNV, including symptoms and health complications, on the state Department of Public Health website.