First human case of West Nile Virus detected in Massachusetts

BOSTON (WLNE) — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced Thursday the first human case of West Nile Virus in the state this year.

The infected victim is a woman in her 70s in Suffolk County, according to the department.

“This is the first time that West Nile virus infection has been identified in a person in Massachusetts this year,” said Public Health Commissioner Margret Cooke. “August and September are the months when most cases of West Nile virus occur.”

She continued, “Although the significant drought conditions that exist across the Commonwealth have kept the populations of the Culex mosquito species that are most likely to spread WNV relatively small, today’s news is an important reminder that we all need to take steps to protect ourselves and our families from mosquito bites.”

Last year there were 11 human cases of WNV infections in Massachusetts.

According to the department, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe disease. Although, WNV can infect people of all ages.

To learn how to prevent infection, visit their website.