West Nile virus found in mosquitos in Raynham and Middleboro. What to know and do

Daniel Schemer

The Taunton Daily Gazette

RAYNHAM — West Nile virus has been found in mosquito samples in Raynham and Middleboro — including mosquitoes that bite humans — changing the towns’ risk level from low to moderate, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.   

Mosquitoes from Aug. 8 and Aug. 14 collections from the towns were tested by the state’s Department of Public Health (DPH), and multiple samples were found to be positive for West Nile virus (WNV).

The DPH says that moderate risk level means infection with WNV is a possibility, or has already occurred. 

Raynham Health Director Paula Rossi-Clapp explained that, according to communications she’s received from Bristol County Mosquito Control, the reason the town was changed to moderate risk is that Middleboro had positive samples identified at the same time. 

One of the mosquito samples is the kind that bites humans. Because mosquitoes do not stay within town borders, several communities with swampland have changed to moderate risk. 

What risk level are Taunton, Dighton and Berkley?

Currently, other area communities, including Taunton, Dighton, and Berkley, are at low risk for WNV, meaning no mosquito samples have tested positive, according to the state's most recent data, which dates to Thursday Aug. 17, as of Friday afternoon. 

Rossi-Clapp said Bristol County Mosquito Control wants more testing and data, to see if more than one human-biting mosquito tests positive over the next week.

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Are there any restrictions on outdoor activities in Raynham?

In the meantime, there won’t be any restrictions placed on public outings. 

Has there been any aerial pesticide spraying?

Aerial spraying has been occurring regularly at the Senior Center and recreational athletic fields on King Phillips Road in Raynham. 

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What is West Nile virus?

WNV is part of group of viruses known as arboviruses, which are 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.

Who is at most risk for severe illness from West Nile virus?

While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe infection.

How many people experience severe illness from WNV?

According to the state’s Department of Public Health, 80% of people infected with WNV show no systems, do not feel sick and will be fine. Less than 20% infected will develop symptoms, like fever, vomiting, nausea, and body aches. 

The CDC stated 1 out of 150, or less than 1%. of the infected will experience severe illness and symptoms, like encephalitis, meningitis, paralysis, vision loss or could even go into a coma or even death.

How common is West Nile virus?

The state’s Department of Public Health also said that even though cases have been identified all over the state, it’s difficult to record the number of people exposed due to the lack of symptoms for the majority. From 2011–2020, 148 cases were reported with severe illness. Seven of these people died. 

How can I avoid West Nile virus and EEE?

Raynham's and Middleboro’s health departments recommend taking the following measures to avoid mosquito bites that might cause WNV or Eastern equine encephalitis, also known, as EEE — which tends to be rarer but has a much higher incidence of severe illness than WNV:

1. Apply insect repellent when spending time outdoors. 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 2 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 3 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.
2. Wear long clothing. Long-sleeved shirts, pants and socks will protect your skin from mosquitoes. 
3. Be aware of peak mosquito hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak periods for mosquitoes. Think about rescheduling outdoor activities for outside these peak periods. 
4. Drain any standing water you find on or near your home. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Check rain gutters and drains, check your lawn for puddles, empty unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change the water in birdbaths frequently.
5. Install or repair screens for your doors and windows. 
   
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