Rhode Island finds first case of West Nile Virus in mosquitos

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said that West Nile Virus has been detected in a mosquito sample for the first time this year.

Mosquitos that were tested on were collected from traps set in Westerly on July 24.

The DEM said that 36 samples from around the state were tested and only the Westerly sample tested positive.

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.

Connecticut mosquitos that were collected on July 17 tested positive for West Nile.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health previously found West Nile Virus in mosquitos the state had tested.

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.