To date, over 250 mosquito samples have tested positive for WNV in Massachusetts this year. This includes mosquitoes found in the surrounding communities of Boston, Dedham, Norwood, Quincy, Randolph, Westwood, and Weymouth.

WNV is transmitted to humans by the bite of a mosquito infected with the virus. While WNV can infect peopleof all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe infection.

By taking a few common-sense precautions, people can help to protect themselves and their loved ones:

Avoid Mosquito Bites

· Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours – The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many

mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning. Otherwise,take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing.

· Clothing Can Help reduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

· Apply Insect Repellent when you go 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 twomonths of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptusshould not be used on children under three years of age. Permethrin products are intended for use on items suchas clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin.

· Drain Standing Water – Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around yourhome for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or getting rid of items that hold water. Check rain gutters anddrains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently.

· Install or Repair Screens – Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.

Information about WNV and reports of WNV activity in Massachusetts can be found on the MDPH website atwww.mass.gov/dph/wnv. Please also visit the “Mosquito Control” section of the Health Department’s webpage at www.townofmilton.org. While you are there you can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitterto stay up to date on public health news in Milton.