A HUMAN CASE OF WEST NILE VIRUS IN MASSACHUSETTS: JUST WHEN FALL TEMPS HAVE YOUR GUARD DOWN

The very first case of human West Nile Virus in Massachusetts for the year has just been reported. While the human infection came out of Bristol County, there have been over 265 positive WNV mosquito samples across the state this year.

WEST NILE VIRUS IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY

Forty-eight Middlesex County mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile Virus this year. That is 18% of the total positive samples in the state, just in one county! Check mosquitoresult.com for the latest numbers.

WEST NILE VIRUS IS A LATE SUMMER MOSQUITO DISEASE

While West Nile virus is rare, and most people who get it won’t even know they have it, it can be deadly for some. While you may think the mosquito population is worse in mid-summer than now, that does not mean your chances for mosquito-borne illness decreases.

West Nile virus is spread from birds to mosquitoes and back to birds again who infect other mosquitoes. When a mosquito passes West Nile virus to a human, transmission stops there. Meaning humans do NOT pass WNV on to other mosquitoes if they are bitten. This transmission cycle is a process that starts in the spring when infected overwintering mosquitoes first come out. It takes some time for the disease to build up in birds and back to mosquitoes before humans and other mammals such as horses begin to be infected. This typically occurs in August and September.

So as you are preparing to say goodbye to summer, remember, now is the most important time to be diligent about your mosquito safety and mosquito control efforts. It only takes one bite by an infected mosquito to alter your life dramatically.

When out and about protect yourself with clothing and mosquito repellent containing DEET. While at home, enjoy peace-of-mind with Mosquito Squad’s barrier treatment. We’ll eliminate 80-90% of the mosquitoes on your property, 100% satisfaction guaranteed! Call today.