~ Boston Resident Tests Positive for West Nile Virus, First Human Case in the City This Summer

The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) has confirmed that a Boston resident in his late 60s has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the first human case of WNV in Boston this summer. The individual is currently receiving treatment and is showing signs of improvement. According to the BPHC, the individual has not recently traveled and does not have any of the common risk factors associated with contracting WNV.

Last week, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health raised the risk level for WNV in Boston to "high" due to ongoing evidence of mosquitoes carrying the virus in the city. In July, mosquito samples from Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, Roxbury, and West Roxbury tested positive for WNV, marking the first positive samples of the summer. WNV is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites.

To reduce the risk of contracting WNV, BPHC is urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites. These include avoiding spending extended periods outdoors from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active, wearing long clothing and high socks to prevent bites, and using EPA-approved insect repellents such as DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

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Residents are also advised to ensure that screens on windows and doors are properly fitted without any holes, regularly empty out standing water from bird baths and flowerpots where mosquitoes can breed, clean out gutters and remove debris or blockages, and dispose of old tires which can collect rainwater and attract mosquitoes.

Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health and Executive Director of BPHC stated that they are closely monitoring the spread of WNV with their state partners. She also emphasized that simple steps can be taken by individuals to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses like WNV. Those who spend time outside near dusk or dawn should wear long sleeves and use insect repellent.

While most people infected with WNV do not experience any symptoms, some may experience headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, and body aches which can last for a few days or several weeks. In severe cases, individuals over the age of 50 may experience high fever, severe headache, confusion, lack of coordination, and muscle paralysis or weakness. If anyone experiences these symptoms, they are advised to seek medical assistance immediately.

For more information on WNV and other mosquito-borne illnesses, residents can visit BPHC's website. The BPHC is working diligently to monitor the spread of WNV and urges residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

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