West Nile Virus Detected In Reading Mosquitoes

READING, MA — West Nile Virus has been detected in a sample in Reading taken Aug. 22. The virus was also detected in samples from Boston, Tyringham, Otis, Wakefield, and Middleton, according to the town.

The state's West Nile Virus Risk Map rates Reading as having moderate risk.

The town recommended residents take a variety of precautionary actions including wearing long sleeves and pants, applying mosquito repellant when outdoors, and clearing any standing water areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed.

Earlier this month, mosquitoes carrying the virus were found in Burlington.

The virus can affect people of all ages, but those 50 and over are at the highest risk of severe disease. The virus is typically transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes.

Most people who are infected with West Nile Virus do not experience any signs or symptoms, according to officials. In some cases, people will experience a headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and body aches which can last for a few days or several weeks but usually go away on their own.

However, in rare cases, the virus can cause serious symptoms including high fever, severe headache, confusion, lack of coordination, and muscle paralysis or weakness, officials said. Anyone with serious symptoms should get medical help immediately.

See related: Why West Nile Virus Risk Level In Boston Has Been Upgraded