West Nile virus risk map from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health
HYANNIS – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has announced an additional human case of West Nile virus (WNV), bringing the total number of cases this year up to seven.
The infection was identified in a woman in her 30s exposed to WNV in Bristol County.
In response to the increase in cases, several communities have had their risk level raised to moderate, including Plympton in Plymouth County.
State health officials said that as overnight temperatures get cooler, mosquito activity right around dusk and dawn may become more intense.
“This is our first West Nile virus case this year in someone under the age of 50,” said Acting Public Health Commissioner Margret Cook in a statement.
“This is a reminder that although people over the age of 50 are at greater risk from West Nile virus, all ages can be affected. Risk from West Nile virus will continue until the first hard frost and people should remember to take steps to prevent mosquito bites anytime they are outdoors.”
Five human cases of WNV infection were reported in the state in 2020.
Most people who become infected with WNV have no symptoms.
If symptoms do occur, they include fever and flu-like illness. More severe illness can occur in rare cases, which those over the age of 50 are more susceptible to.
Health officials urged the public to use insect repellent, wear long sleeve shirts and long pants and avoid being outside from dusk to dawn.
They also encourage residents to drain any standing water to remove breeding locations for mosquitos.
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