West Nile virus found in Ayer Mosquito

AYER, MA – The Mbadachusetts Department of Public Health announced last week that West Nile virus was found in a mosquito in Ayer, according to the city. This year, 5,496 mosquito samples were tested for the virus; 290 came back positive.

Ayer had a positive sample test this year, the city said in a statement.

The virus, which is most commonly transmitted to humans through mosquito bites, is a more serious threat to people over 50 years of age. Mosquitoes carrying WNV are common throughout the state.

Here are some tips to protect yourself, thanks to the city of Ayer:

Avoid mosquito bites

• Be aware of mosquito rush hour – The hours of twilight at dawn for many mosquitoes. Consider postponing outdoor activities that take place in the evening or early in the morning. If you are outside and you notice mosquitoes around you, take steps to avoid being bitten by moving inside, covering and / or wearing a repellent.
• Clothing Can Help Reduce mosquito bites. Although it can be hard to do when it's hot, wearing long sleeves, pants and socks on the outside 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, picaridine (KBR 3023), IR3535 or eucalyptus lemon [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used in infants less than two months of age and should be used at concentrations of 30% or less in older children. Lemon eucalyptus oil should not be used on children under three years old. Products containing permethrin are designed for use on clothing, shoes, mosquito nets and camping gear and should not be applied to the skin.

Mosquito Net of Your Home

• Draining Stagnant Water – Many mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water. Limit the number of places around your house for mosquitoes to reproduce by draining or disposing of objects that hold water. Check the gutters and drains. Empty unused flower pots and wading pools and frequently change the water of the bird baths.
• Install or Repair Screens – Some mosquitoes like to go inside. Keep them out by having well-fitted screens on all your windows and doors.

You will find information on WNV and reports on current and historical WNV virus activity in Mbadachusetts on the MDPH website: www.mbad. gov / dph / mosquito.

Large photo via Shutterstock