Mosquito in Waltham tests positive for West Nile Virus

By AUBREY HAWKE
Waltham Times Contributing Writer

A mosquito in Waltham recently tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Waltham has been at a “moderate” risk level for West Nile Virus since Sept. 6.

Officials reminded residents to take precautions to guard against mosquito bites, which can transmit the virus to humans.

“People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes,” said the Waltham city government’s Sept. 19 announcement.  

The announcement urged people to use insect repellent and wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants while outdoors. It advised people to be particularly cautious from dusk to dawn, which is the peak time for mosquito activity.

The city announcement also advised residents to ensure window screens fit well and are in good condition and to remove standing water around structures to help mosquito-proof buildings and keep pets safe.

The state Department of Public Health lists Waltham’s risk for Eastern Equine Encephalitis, or EEE, another mosquito-carried disease, as “remote.”

More information on West Nile Virus and other mosquito-carried illnesses can be found here.

Photo credit: Wild Turkey, under CC2. Image has been cropped.