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The Massachusetts Health Department announced this week that testers had detected the virus in Hadley and South Hadley on July 28. The risk of exposure remains low for most people, but residents should take steps to prevent contracting West Nile Virus. Young children and the elderly are especially at risk of severe complications if they catch it.
“We often find the first evidence of WNV in mosquitoes at about this time every year,” said Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robert Goldstein in a news release. "We are asking people to start taking steps now to avoid mosquito bites. While WNV can cause serious illness, there are simple things that you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
Related: West Nile Virus Detected In Brookline Mosquitos
Recent heavy rains will boost mosquito numbers in Western Massachusetts. To avoid being bit, officials say residents should use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing, avoid outdoors at dawn and dusk, repair window screens, and remove any standing water at their homes.
The Centers for Disease Control said 20 percent of people who contract the virus will develop symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Though, fatigue and weakness from the illness can last for months.
West Nile Virus is fatal in about 1 in 150 cases, the CDC said. Older people are at higher risk of dying.
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