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In Berkshire County, weekly samples of mosquitoes collected in Pittsfield found two instances of West Nile Virus, the state health department revealed Friday, Sept. 8.
One positive sample was taken from the Pittsfield Cemetery, and the other came from the Pittsfield Airport.
West Nile Virus is most commonly spread to humans through mosquito bites in the fall months when the insects are most active, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Most people infected do not develop any symptoms, though one in five develop a fever with other symptoms like headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Fatigue and weakness can persist for months.
Pittsfield continues to have a moderate risk level for West Nile Virus, meaning “infection is likely or has occurred” in humans, according to an online risk map from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
No human cases of West Nile Virus had been confirmed in the state as of Friday.
Health officials offered up the following tips to lower your risk of infection:
- Repair screens and clean up to get rid of mosquito breeding sites
- Be aware of stagnant water on private property (e.g., unused swimming pools) and consult with the local health department
- Wear long sleeves and long pants from dusk to dawn when the weather permits
- Use mosquito netting on baby carriages and playpens
- Wear mosquito repellent when outdoors, especially between dusk and dawn
- Dump standing water twice weekly
- Remove areas of standing water around your home twice a week
More information on West Nile Virus can be found on the CDC website.
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