No West Nile found in Rhode Island for first time in 2 weeks

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said that no West Nile Virus was detected in any samples collected in the state.

For the past two weeks, mosquitos collected in samples from Westerly tested positive for the virus.

However, samples from across the state set on Aug. 7 all tested negative.

The DEM said that residents can help with mosquito control by removing backyard larval habitats, such as clogged gutters and puddles.

Residents should also look out for the Asian Tiger Mosquito, which is a daytime biter with a recognizable black and white pattern.

Guidelines to prevent mosquito bites released by the Rhode Island Departments of Environmental Management and Health. (Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management)

The DEM added that Massachusetts, which reported its first case of West Nile on July 6, has found 52 findings so far this year.

Meanwhile Connecticut, which tested its first positive sample on July 17, has announced 36 findings of the virus.

None of the three states have had any positive Eastern Equine Encephalitis tests yet this year.

The DEM said that although EEE is extremely rare in humans, it is very serious and has a much higher human mortality rate than West Nile.

Horse owners are also advised to vaccinate their animals early in the season.