West Nile Virus
WNV is a virus carried by mosquitoes that can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). WNV is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. A mosquito becomes infected by biting a bird that carries the virus. ou cannot get WNV through contact with a human or animal that has the virus. There is no evidence that a person can get the virus from handling live or dead infected birds. However, you should always use gloves when handling any dead animals and use double plastic bags to discard them in the trash.
Illness related to WNV is rare. Most people who are bitten by mosquitoes carrying the WNV will experience no symptoms or very mild symptoms. Mild symptoms include fever, headache, and body aches, often with skin rash and swollen lymph glands. Severe symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, disorientation, neck stiffness, paralysis, coma, tremors, convulsions, and rarely death. There is no vaccine or cure for WNV. Everyone in areas with active virus is at risk of getting WNV, however persons greater than 65 years of age have the highest risk of severe disease.
Steps to prevent WNV
The best way to protect yourself is to keep mosquitoes from biting you.
- Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn; this is when mosquitoes are most active. If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants.
- Use a mosquito repellent that contains DEET and follow the directions on the label. DEET can be toxic if overused. Never use DEET on infants and do not apply repellents to the face or hands of children. Once inside, wash off insect repellents thoroughly with soap and water.
- Fix any holes in your screens and be sure that they are tightly attached to doors and windows.
- Dispose of or regularly empty any containers that may hold water (including trashcans) on your property.
- Pay special attention to discarded tires. They are a common place for mosquitoes to breed.
- Clean clogged roof gutters; remove leaves and debris that may prevent drainage of water.
- Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use. Do not allow water to stagnate in birdbaths; aerate ornamental ponds or stock them with fish.
- Keep swimming pools clean and properly chlorinated; remove standing water from pool.
The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Management Project (CMMCP) provides an integrated pest management approach to mosquito control using mosquito surveillance, public education and other specialized techniques to limit pesticide usage and to reduce the potential for disease transmission and mosquito annoyance to the public. CMMCP personnel investigate complaints from residents about high adult mosquito population as well as regular surveillance of wetland areas. The results of an investigation may warrant the application of an insecticide to specific areas of Town. Residents can check the website to determine when investigations are scheduled or to request spraying. CMMCP can also be reached at 508-393-3055. If you find a dead bird, call the Massachusetts Department of Public Health West Nile Virus Hotline at 1-866-627-7968.