FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 8/01/2024
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
West Nile Virus Mosquitoes Detected in City of Framingham
FRAMINGHAM - The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) announced today, August 1, that West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitoes collected in Framingham.
This is the first time that West Nile Virus has been detected in a mosquito sample collected from Framingham this year. Last month, mosquitoes with the virus were detected in Natick and Wayland.
In 2024, there are 75 positive mosquito samples in the Commonwealth, including 10 in Middlesex County.
As of today, August 1, there are no human and no animal cases of West Nile Virus in the Commonwealth.
West Nile Virus 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 for severe infection.
By taking a few, common-sense precautions, people can help to protect themselves and their loved ones:
AVOID MOSQUITO BITES
Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours - The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. 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.
Clothing Can Help reduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
Apply Insect Repellent when you go outdoors.
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 of your windows and doors.
Framingham belongs to the Eastern Middlesex Mosquito Control Project (EMMCP). The project has done multiple sprayings in the City of Framingham.
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