Last updated on July 9, 2018
A mosquito pool in Jamaica Plain recently tested positive for West Nile Virus, reported the Boston Public Health Commission. While it is common to find West Nile Virus infected mosquitos around this time of year, and no human cases have been recorded, it is still important to remain vigilant to protect yourself.
“It is typical to find West Nile Virus in Boston at this time of year due to the periods of hot weather,” said BPHC Medical Director Dr. Jennifer Lo via press release. “This does not mean the average person is at increased risk of getting WNV. However, people should still take simple precautions to avoid mosquito bites.”
WNV is most commonly transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito, but it actually poses a very low risk to most people. According to the BPHC, there were no human cases of WNV infection diagnosed in Boston residents in 2017.
Most people infected with WNV will show no symptoms, but symptoms may include fever and flu-like illness.
BPHC officials recommend wearing insect repellant when outdoors from dusk to dawn, and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when possible. A good way to avoid pooling mosquitos is by empty standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires and birdbaths on a regular basis.
Boston has partnered with the Suffolk County Mosquito Control Project and has placed larvicide in catch basins and wetlands, which is designed to reduce the mosquito population.
If you have any questions related to the spraying or any questions about mosquitoes, please call the Suffolk County Mosquito Control Project at 781-899-5730 or visit bphc.org/mosquitocontrol.