Two new human cases of West Nile virus detected in Massachusetts

As a result of the new cases, nine communities in Essex County are now considered to be at moderate risk of infection; including Boxford, Essex, Georgetown, Hamilton, Ipswich, Manchester, Newbury, Rowley and Topsfield, health officials said. There are 27 towns in Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk and Suffolk County, however, at high risk of infection, the state said.

“There are currently large numbers of mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in parts of Massachusetts due to an almost perfect combination of periodic rain and warm temperatures,” Acting Public Health Commissioner Margret Cooke said. “Our six human cases concern people over the age of 50. It is especially important that people at risk for serious illness, such as people over 50 and anyone with compromised immune system, remember to take steps to avoid mosquito bites whenever they are outdoors.

No deaths have been linked to West Nile WNV so far this year, the state said.

The virus can infect people of all ages, but adults over 50 are at a higher risk of developing serious illness, officials said. Most people who are infected do not develop any symptoms.

State health officials recommend precautions to prevent mosquito-borne diseases; this may include wearing mosquito repellent or long sleeves outside, installing screens in windows, draining still water where mosquitoes lay their eggs, and taking extra precautions during peak mosquito times at dusk and dawn.

Katie Redefer can be reached at [email protected].