Positive West Nile Virus Sample Found in Medford

 

MEDFORD – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) confirmed to City of Medford health officials today, July 1, 2021, that a mosquito sample from the City of Medford has tested positive for West Nile Virus. This sample was collected from the southwest region of the City on June 29, 2021. At this time there is no elevated risk level for West Nile Virus due to the positive sample. The City of Medford, through a contracted service, has mosquito traps that are regularly monitored, and samples are collected and tested. Following this recent positive sample, trapping and surveillance will be increased in the near future.

 

To prevent mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile Virus and EEE, community members can and should take the following precautions:

 

• Use mosquito repellents with an EPA-registered active ingredient (such as DEET).
• Limit outdoor activities from dusk to dawn, when mosquito activity is most likely.
• Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors.
• Limit the number of places around your home where there is standing water; mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water.
• Make sure the screens on your windows and doors are tight-fitting.

 

More information, including all WNV and EEE positive results, can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page at https://www.mass.gov/mosquitoesandticks, which is updated daily, or by calling the DPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800.