RIDEM reports first West Nile Virus detection of the year

Christopher Boardman,

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) has reported the state’s first confirmed case of a mosquito with West Nile Virus for 2025.

The mosquito sample with the virus was collected in East Providence on July 21.

Massachusetts reported a West Nile Virus detection Wednesday.

Health officials said you can help protect against mosquito bites by:

  • Applying bug repellent with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
  • Wearing long-sleeves, long pants, and socks to keep mosquitos away from your skin
  • Being aware of peak mosquito hours, which is from dusk to dawn
  • Draining standing water near your home to prevent mosquitos from breeding
  • Installing or repairing screens in your home
Categories: News, Rhode Island

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