The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) announced today that West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitoes collected from North Attleborough, Massachusetts.
In 2024, 8,597 mosquito samples were tested for WNV, and 333 samples were positive. North Attleborough had a total of two (2) WNV positive mosquito samples identified in 2024, also in August. WNV is most commonly transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. The mosquitoes that carry this virus are common throughout the state and are found in urban as well as more rural areas. While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk of severe infection.
By taking a few common-sense precautions, people can help to protect themselves and their loved ones:
Avoid Mosquito Bites
- Apply Insect Repellent when you go outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-mtoluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on
older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin. Clothing Can Help reduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin. - Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours - The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many
mosquitoes. When risk is increased, consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during
evening or early morning. If you are outdoors at any time and notice mosquitoes around you, take
steps to avoid being bitten by moving indoors, covering up and/or wearing repellant.
Mosquito-Proof Your Home - Drain Standing Water – Many mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of
places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or getting rid of items that hold
water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools and change
water in birdbaths frequently. - Install or Repair Screens - Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having
tightly fitting screens on all your windows and doors.
While the North Attleborough Health Department continues to work closely with the MDPH and other agencies, locally we are educating the public, notifying partners at the Park and Recreation Department, Hockomock YMCA, and facilities with vulnerable populations.
Information about WNV and reports of current and historical WNV virus activity in Massachusetts can be
found on the MDPH website at: www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito.
