Arrival of West Nile virus forces state to recommend avoiding “rush hour”

BOSTON – A woman in her 60s has the first human case of West Nile virus this year in Massachusetts and was likely exposed to the virus in Middlesex County, the Department of Public Health said on Wednesday.

“The risk from West Nile virus has been slow to increase this year,” Acting Public Health Commissioner Margret Cooke said. “It is an important reminder that we must all continue to take action to protect ourselves and our families from mosquito bites.”

The department said it considers the current risk of human infection with West Nile virus to be moderate in the greater Boston area and in several cities in Bristol and Worcester counties.

Health officials recommend that people take steps to avoid mosquito bites, including applying insect repellant with DEET, lemon eucalyptus oil or IR3535, wearing long sleeves, pants long and socks outside, and considering postponing outdoor activities that would occur from dusk to dawn, “peak biting time for many mosquitoes.”

Five human cases of West Nile virus infection were identified in Massachusetts last year. The DPH said recent warm weather and heavy rains in July have resulted in an increase in the population of a mosquito species known to spread to the West Nile and breed in places where standing water collects. .

The ministry recommends draining standing water around homes, as well as installing or repairing mosquito nets to prevent mosquitoes from getting inside.