West Nile Virus Detected in New Bedford Mosquito Sample

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — For the first time this season, West Nile Virus has been detected in a mosquito sample collected in New Bedford.

Where Was the West Nile Virus Found?

The City of New Bedford was recently notified by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health that the virus was found in a mosquito sample collected in the Washburn Street area. The sample contained a primarily bird-biting mosquito.

Current Risk Levels Across Massachusetts and Bristol County

New Bedford and almost all of Bristol County is currently at low risk for West Nile Virus throughout the Commonwealth. Swansea and Somerset are the only communities in the county currently at moderate risk.

Similarly, Plymouth County is at low risk as well, except for the northern part of the county. About half of Massachusetts as a whole is currently at low risk for West Nile, with a high risk only for Boston and its surrounding suburbs.

The other mosquito-transmitted disease, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, is also at low risk across Massachusetts, except for four towns – Carver, Plympton, Halifax, and Kingston – where there is moderate risk for EEE.

Only two human cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in Massachusetts so far this season, both in Middlesex County. One was a man in his 90s, the other a man in his 60s. There have been no confirmed human cases of EEE, nor animal cases for either West Nile or EEE.

How to Protect Yourself From Mosquito Bites

The New Bedford Health Department also recommends:

Being aware of peak mosquito hours (from dusk to dawn)
Wearing clothing that helps reduce mosquito bites, such as long sleeves, long pants and socks
Using a DEET insect repellant when going outdoors
Draining standing water on your property and emptying birdbaths
Installing or repairing screens on windows and doors

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