West Nile Virus Detected Dangerously Close to Amherst

State health authorities say 18 batches of mosquitoes, including some from Nashua and Manchester, have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The findings prompted the state Department of Public Health Services to raise the risk level for arboviral diseases in the greater Nashua, Manchester and Salem areas on Wednesday. 

West Nile Virus, which is transmitted via the bit of an infected mosquito, was first identified in New Hampshire in 2000.

So far this season, the state Public Health Lab has tested 1,621 mosquito batches, two animals and 10 people. Last year, nine mosquito batches tested positive for West Nile Virus in the state.

The batches of mosquitoes testing positive this year is now at 26, according to the state.

State Epidemiologist Sharon Alroy-Preis said, in a press release:

“While this is our first announcement of West Nile Virus positives in New Hampshire this season, we have been hearing of positive test results from some of our neighboring states  already. As with every year, this should serve as a reminder to people to take steps to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes. We encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the beautiful summer weather, but do so safely. You can protect yourself and your family with a few simple steps, such as using effective mosquito repellant, wearing long sleeves and pants
at  dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and removing standing water from around your house so mosquitoes do not have a place to breed.”

Symptoms of the disease often appear four to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The state recommends anyone who is experiencing flu-like symptoms, including fever and headache, to contact their local medical provider.

There is also a West Nile Virus /EEE hot-line:  1-866-273-6453, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.

For West Nile Virus Prevention Tips, see attached PDF file from the state.