West Nile, EEE found in latest Rhode Island mosquito sample

WESTERLY, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and Department of Health said that there were two positive findings of West Nile Virus and 13 positive findings of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in the latest collected mosquito samples.

The West Nile samples were collected in Westerly while the EEE samples were collected from South Kingstown.

RIDEM said that the mosquitos were collected from traps set statewide on July 29.

The state has had a total of three West Nile and 15 EEE findings so far in 2024.

Connecticut has announced 105 West Nile findings and 20 EEE virus findings, while Massachusetts has announced 124 West Nile findings, 34 EEE findings.

There has also been one human case of West Nile and one animal case of EEE in Massachusetts.

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.