Potentially Fatal Virus Detected In Worcester Mosquitoes

WORCESTER, MA — A potentially fatal virus has been detected in mosquitoes collected in Worcester, according to a news release from the city on Thursday.

The West Nile Virus was found in mosquitoes collected from a trap on Willow Street. The city is now reassuring residents that the risk level remains low and no human cases have been reported.

Because of these findings, the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project will conduct a wide-area pesticide spray next week. It will happen on Tuesday after 9 p.m., where the WNV-insects were found. You can view the map of areas being sprayed here.

During that time, residents are advised to close windows and turn off any outside air settings on air conditioners. Additionally, the city is asking residents to stay in and keep their pets inside during the spray.

To avoid mosquito bites and the diseases they carry, residents are encouraged to practice the 5 Ds.

• Dress in long sleeves and pants when possible.
• Deet is an effective insect repellent.
• Dawn and Dusk are the most active periods for mosquitoes.
• Drain water from containers weekly.

Most people infected with the West Nile Virus will have no symptoms, but some could experience fever or flu-like illness. In the most severe cases, the virus can be deadly.

There were 19 human cases reported in Massachusetts last year.

Last week, the state confirmed the first animal case of the West Nile Virus for this year. That is after a goat was exposed to the virus in Lunenberg.

See Related:

• First Animal Case Of West Nile Virus In MA For 2025
• Potentially Fatal Virus Detected In MA Mosquitoes: MDPH