West Nile Virus detected in South Boston mosquito pool

West Nile Virus was detected in a mosquito pool in South Boston, based on the Boston Public Well being Fee. 

West Nile Virus has additionally not too long ago been present in mosquitoes in Worcester and Brookline. Whereas West Nile Virus may be transmitted to people via the chew of an contaminated mosquito, BPHC says the transmission threat stays low, and there are presently no confirmed human circumstances amongst Boston residents.

In keeping with the CDC, most individuals who contract West Nile Virus received’t really feel any signs from the illness, with only one in 5 experiencing any signs in any respect and 1 in 150 experiencing critical sickness.

Folks 50 years and older usually tend to develop excessive fever, extreme headache, confusion, lack of coordination, and muscle paralysis or weak spot in the event that they contract the virus, based on BPHC. It’s necessary to contact a healthcare supplier instantly in the event you start to expertise these signs. 

One of the simplest ways to keep away from the virus is to keep away from mosquito bites. 

“Throughout this time of the yr and into the autumn, we encourage residents to guard themselves by utilizing insect repellant and carrying lengthy sleeve clothes when outdoors at nightfall and daybreak for extended intervals of time.” Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Well being and Govt Director of BPHC wrote in a press launch. 

The BPHC additionally recommends that residents be sure that all home windows and doorways shut correctly, recurrently clear gutters, and solely use EPA authorized insect repellents (DEET, oil of lemon, eucalyptus, picaridin, or IR3535) to avoid bites. 

Go to Mass.gov for extra details about mosquito chew prevention and methods you may maintain your self, and your neighbors, secure all through the summer time.