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By Maddie Mulligan
The first positive mosquito samples for West Nile Virus (WNV) were found in Norfolk County on Monday, July 28th by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. There were two positive samples found in Canton.
WNV is primarily transmitted to humans through mosquito bites and is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States.
Only one in five humans infected develop symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and vomiting.
To reduce risk, it is recommended to wear mosquito repellant with an EPA-registered ingredient and clothing such as pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks from dusk until dawn. It is important to be cautious at evening events as they coincide with peak mosquito hours, which is the time when mosquitos bite the most.
Is it also recommended to be prepared by knowing your own risk, checking mass.gov’s page on arbovirus updates, installing or repairing any broken window screens, and removing standing water from around homes.
Animal owners can keep pets safe by eliminating standing water and contacting their veterinarians for information about pet-safe insect repellants and possible vaccines.
More information and tips for being prepared can be found by consulting local boards of health.
Norfolk County still remains at low risk for WNV.
Thanks to Maddie Mulligan, student at Boston College, and head editor for the arts section of The Heights, an independent, student-run newspaper, for contributing this article to Westwood Minute. Ms. Mulligan is interning with Westwood Minute for the summer.
