News

West Nile Virus detected in Mass. mosquito sample

BOSTON (AP) - Massachusetts health officials say experts have detected the first infection of West Nile virus in a mosquito in the state this year.

Public health officials say the State Laboratory Institute on Friday confirmed the virus infection in a mosquito sample collected Tuesday in Whitman.

The Department of Public Health says no human cases of West Nile Virus or Eastern equine encephalitis have been detected so far this year.

The bite of an infected mosquito usually transmits West Nile Virus to humans. People older than 50 years are at higher risk for severe disease.

Thirty-three West Nile Virus cases were detected in Massachusetts residents last year.

Health officials urge residents to cover up, use bug spray and avoid mosquito bites.