Rhode Island reports another West Nile finding

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said that West Nile Virus was once again detected in a mosquito sample collected in the state.

Like the prior two samples that detected the virus, the mosquito was collected in Westerly.

The traps the samples came from were set on Aug. 15.

Last week the state did not detect any of the virus, a change from the prior two weeks.

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

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

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

The DEM added that Massachusetts, which reported its first case of West Nile on July 6, has found 82 findings so far this year.

Meanwhile Connecticut, which tested its first positive sample on July 17, has announced 50 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.