Wilmington Mosquito Pool Tests Positive For West Nile

WILMINGTON, MA — A Wilmington mosquito pool tested positive for the West Nile Virus, raising the town to high risk for the virus, the Health Department said Wednesday.

The pool was found in the Dorchester Street and Third Avenue area, near the Billerica town line.

The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project sprayed the area Wednesday night.

"It is important to survey your yard for standing water, holes in screens and protect yourself from mosquito bites," the Health Department said. "Wear long-sleeved, light-colored clothing and wear a repellant containing deet."

West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans by bites from mosquitos commonly found throughout Massachusetts. While about 75% of the people infected with West Nile experience no symptoms, about 20% of people develop a fever, headache, vomiting, or a rash. In rare cases the infection can be fatal. The virus is particularly dangerous for people over the age of 50.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.