West Nile detected in East Providence

Gino DeAngelis,

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and Rhode Island Department of Health said that West Nile Virus was detected in East Providence.

The virus was found in a mosquito sample collected in East Providence on Sept. 22.

No collected samples have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus or Jamestown Canyon Virus.

RIDOH reminded residents of the following precautions to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses:

  • Put screens on windows and doors
  • Consider rescheduling outdoor activities during the evening or early morning
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants at dusk and dawn
  • Use EPA-approved bug spray

Officials added that the public should monitor any standing water around their homes, such as unused swimming pools and unclean gutters, which can serve as mosquito breeding grounds if not properly treated.

More information can be found here.

Categories: News, Rhode Island

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