Massachusetts raises West Nile virus risk to high in several cities

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has raised the West Nile virus risk level to ‘high’ for several cities, including Everett, Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Newton, Somerville, and Watertown. This escalation follows the confirmation of a second human case of the virus in the state this season, with the most recent infection occurring in Middlesex County.

Health officials noted that the infected individual in Middlesex County is in their 60s, following an earlier case involving a man in his 90s. Because mosquitoes can remain active until the first hard frost, authorities are warning residents to remain vigilant.

To reduce risk, officials recommend using EPA-registered insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours between dusk and dawn. Residents are also advised to eliminate standing water in containers like flowerpots and birdbaths to prevent mosquito breeding.