RIDOH says newest mosquito sample test positive for West Nile

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and Rhode Island Department of Health said that the latest mosquito samples collected in the state had three positive findings of West Nile Virus.

The mosquito samples testing positive were collected in North Kingstown, Tiverton, and South Kingstown from traps set on Aug. 27.

This year, Rhode Island announced 17 EEE virus findings in mosquito samples, six West Nile findings, and one probable human case of West Nile.

Meanwhile, Connecticut has announced 46 EEE virus findings, 275 West Nile findings, one Jamestown Canyon Virus finding, one human case of West Nile, and an animal case of EEE virus in a deer, while Massachusetts has announced 291 West Nile findings, 88 EEE findings, two human cases of EEE virus, two animal cases of EEE virus, and six human cases of West Nile.

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

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.

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.

More information can be found here.