West Nile virus detected in mosquito samples in Boston and Montana

Health officials in both Boston and Montana have confirmed the detection of West Nile virus in mosquito samples, marking the start of seasonal activity in those regions.

In Boston, the Boston Public Health Commission reported the first positive mosquito test of the summer in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood. While no human cases have been confirmed in the city, officials are advising residents to reduce standing water and use insect repellents to mitigate risks, particularly for seniors and vulnerable populations.

In Montana, the Department of Public Health and Human Services confirmed that two mosquito pools in Roosevelt County tested positive. Although no human or horse cases have been reported in the state this summer, epidemiologists warn that the virus can cause severe neurological complications, including paralysis or death, in a small percentage of infected individuals.