West Nile Virus Found At 3 Mosquito Testing Sites In Malden

MALDEN, MA — Three mosquito testing sites in Malden have tested positive for the West Nile Virus, the Board of Health said Thursday. A human case of the virus was confirmed in Malden Monday.

The areas that had mosquitoes test positive were Malden Street in the Edgeworth area, Blomerth Street in the West End and Delta Terrace in the Linden area.

"Although this information is cause for concern, we are still what the Mass Department of Public Health considers a moderate risk for our residents," the Board of Health said.

Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions until a hard freeze hits the Malden area:

• When scheduling outdoor events avoid the hours between dusk and dawn, since it's when mosquitoes are most active.

• When you are outdoors, wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and socks. This may be difficult to do when the weather is hot, but it will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

• Use a repellent with the chemical Deet.

• Keep mosquitoes out of your house by repairing any holes in your screens and making sure they are tightly attached to all your doors and windows.

• Remove areas of standing water or containers holding water around your home

.For more information on West Nile Virus visit www.cityofmalden.org/westnile or call the Board of Health Office at 781-397-7049.