RIDOH says person in Providence tests positive for West Nile Virus

2 hours ago

Gino DeAngelis,

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Health said that a person in their 60’s from Providence had tested positive for West Nile Virus.

RIDOH said the person was the first probable human case of the virus in 2025.

The department also said that no samples collected statewide on Sept. 15 had tested positive for West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus, or Jamestown Canyon Virus.

There had also been no animal cases of any of the diseases in 2025.

RIDOH reminded residents of the following precautions to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses:

Put screens on windows and doors
Consider rescheduling outdoor activities during the evening or early morning
Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants at dusk and dawn
Use EPA-approved bug spray

Officials added that the public should monitor any standing water around their homes, such as unused swimming pools and unclean gutters, which can serve as mosquito breeding grounds if not properly treated.

More information can be found here.