West Nile Appears In New Worcester Neighborhood

WORCESTER, MA — A neighborhood on Worcester's north side will get extra mosquito treatments after a positive West Nile sample was confirmed by state health officials on Wednesday.

Mosquito spraying via truck will take place on Thursday evening in neighborhoods north of Assumption University and east of Salisbury Street, city officials said.

The new sample breaks with previous positive West Nile samples, which were found in the Institute Park area. The new sample confirmed this week is the sixth so far over the summer of 2024. The West Nile risk level in Worcester remained at "moderate" as of Wednesday.

West Nile is a potentially serious mosquito-borne disease. The virus can cause meningitis and encephalitis in serious cases. There have been two confirmed human cases this summer in Middlesex and Hampden counties.

City officials advised residents to follow the "five Ds" to prevent mosquito exposure:

• DRESS in long sleeves and pants when possible. Cover up during periods of mosquito activity.
• DEET is an effective insect repellent. Always follow the label instructions.
• DAWN & DUSK are mosquitoes’ most active periods.
• DRAIN water from containers weekly. Avoid standing water, such as rain collecting in open bins, buckets, or toys.