August 18, 2022 (Wellesley, MA) –The Wellesley Health Department received word today that a mosquito sample in our community tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), a mosquito-carried illness. Insects in some neighboring communities have also tested positive, raising the risk of human infection for the virus to the moderate level in our area.

West Nile virus is usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While many infected people will have no symptoms or experience mild flu-like symptoms, people over the age of 50 are at a higher risk for severe disease.

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites.

The Health Department is encouraging all residents to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Apply insect repellent when outdoors. (Repellent with an EPA registered ingredient like DEET is recommended; please use according to instructions on the package).

Avoid outdoor activities during the peak mosquito hours of dusk to dawn.

Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors to keep mosquitoes away from skin.

Drain standing water around homes, in gutters and downspouts, and in unused flowerpots, wading pools, birdbaths, and other containers where water collects.

Install or repair screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from coming indoors.

Health officials have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about mosquito-carried illnesses and prevention activities. Additional information is also available on the Health Department webpages.

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