West Nile Virus Detected in Barnstable Mosquitoes
Officials emphasized that while anyone can contract the virus, people over 50 face higher risks of severe infection.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in mosquitoes collected from Barnstable, according to a community announcement released today. "WNV is most commonly transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito," stated the Town of Barnstable in their announcement. "The mosquitoes that carry this virus are common throughout the state and are found in urban as well as more rural areas." Officials emphasized that while anyone can contract the virus, people over 50 face higher risks of severe infection.
Health authorities recommend several key protective measures:
Time awareness: "The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning."
Protective clothing: "Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin."
Repellent use: "Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin."
Home protection: Drain standing water from containers around properties and ensure screens on windows and doors are intact.
The Town of Barnstable Public Health Division continues to monitor the situation in collaboration with state health officials. Residents seeking additional information about West Nile virus can visit the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's website for current and historical data on mosquito-borne diseases in Massachusetts.