RI Mosquitoes Positive For West Nile Virus: What To Know

RHODE ISLAND — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management announced the detection of the first mosquito sample which tested positive for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

A mosquito collected in Westerly had a positive sample for West Nile, while one collected in South Kingston had a positive sample for EEE, officials said. Officials said there haven't been any human cases of either West Nile or EEE this year in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island DEM officials say that EEE is "extremely rare" in humans, but it is serious.

"Approximately 30 percent of people with EEE die, and many survivors have ongoing neurologic problems," officials said.

West Nile Virus is more common than EEE, and officials said both become more prevalent as the summer season progresses. DEM officials are urging residents to take precautions and lessen their exposure to mosquitoes until the first hard frost of the year.

Officials say there are ways to protect yourself from mosquitoes, which include putting screens on windows and doors, rescheduling outdoor activities for the evening or early morning, wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants, and using bug spray.

Additionally, removing mosquito breeding grounds is important.

Officials say to remove items around the house and yard that collect water. They note that just one cup of water can produce hundreds of mosquitos.

For more information, click here.