Boston Mosquito Pools Test Positive for West Nile Virus

Mosquito pools in Back Bay/Fens tested positive Thursday for West Nile Virus, along with pools in South Dorchester.

In June and July samples were also found in Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury, Hyde Park, East Boston, North Dorchester and Roslindale.  However, there have been no confirmed human cases yet this year.

“As we have seen so far this summer, mosquitoes infected with West Nile Virus can be found anywhere in Boston," said Dr. Anita Barry, director of the Infectious Disease Bureau at the Public Health Commission. "It’s very important than people take some simple precautions to avoid mosquito bites."

The city has been applying larvicide in catch basins throughout Boston to reduce the adult mosquito population, but you should also do your best to avoid getting bitten.

Ways to protect yourself:

• Use insect repellant when outdoors, especially at night.
• Wear long sleeves and pants.
• Make sure your screens are in good condition so mosquitoes don't get into your house.
• Get rid of any standing water around your home, which can collect in places like unused flower pots, buckets, wheelbarrows and garbage cans. Remove leaves and debris from gutters, dispose of old tires, and cover swimming pools and kiddie pools when not in use.

For more information see the attached PDF.