Massachusetts health alert: Moderate risk for West Nile Virus in Greater Boston – How to stay protected

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV)

Norfolk County is at moderate risk for acquiring WNV infection and at low risk for acquiring EEE infection. The risk of human infection with WNV is moderate in the Greater Boston area (Middlesex, Norfolk, and Suffolk counties), and in parts of Bristol, Essex, Hampden, Plymouth, and Worcester counties. August and September are the months when most people are exposed to West Nile virus in Massachusetts.

Source of Infection:

EEE and WNV is usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. EEE is a rare but serious and potentially fatal disease that can affect people of all ages.

What can you do to prevent EEE and WNV infection:

1. Repair window screens

2. Wear long sleeves and long pants from dusk to dawn

3. Use mosquito netting on baby carriages and playpens

4. Wear mosquito repellent when outdoors, especially between dusk and dawn

5. Avoid outside areas with obvious mosquito activity

For more information please visit:

www.mass.gov/news/state-health-officials-announce-seasons-first-human-case-of-westnile-virus-and-first-animal-case-of-eee-in-massachusetts