West Nile Virus Confirmed In Medford Mosquitoes

MEDFORD, MA — A mosquito sample taken in Medford has tested positive for the West Nile Virus, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed Thursday. The sample was taken from the southeast region of the city.

There is no elevated risk level for West Nile Virus at this time, health officials said. The state's first positive sample was confirmed earlier this month.

Through a contracted service, Medford has mosquito traps that are regularly monitored and samples are collected and tested.

To prevent mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile Virus and EEE, community members can and should take the following precautions:

• Use mosquito repellents with an EPA-registered active ingredient (such as DEET).
• Limit outdoor activities from dusk to dawn, when mosquito activity is most likely.
• Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors.
• Limit the number of places around your home where there is standing water; mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water.
• Make sure the screens on your windows and doors are tight-fitting.

More information, including all WNV and EEE positive results, can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page at https://www.mass.gov/mosquitoesandticks, which is updated daily, or by calling the DPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800.