West Nile spreading in state
Posted by Kay Lazar August 14, 2009 01:16 PM
By Stephen Smith, Globe Staff
The annual spread of West Nile virus in Massachusetts has accelerated, with health authorities reporting today that mosquitoes carrying the disease have been detected in Westborough and Westford. Yesterday, disease specialists reported the virus had been found in insects in Boston's Jamaica Plain neighborhood, and, in July, it was discovered in Walpole.
No human cases of the disease have been reported so far this summer in Massachusetts. In the past five years, 10 people in the state have been diagnosed with the condition.
To avoid being bitten by a mosquito, specialists recommend staying inside from dusk to dawn, peak mosquito-biting time. If outdoor activity is necessary at night, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks. Bug repellants such as DEET, permethrin, picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus can also provide protection. DEET should not be used on infants younger than 2 months and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be on children younger than 3 years.
Homeowners can take measures that reduce mosquitoes' breeding grounds, including draining flower pots, wading pools, and gutters.
Posted by Kay Lazar August 14, 2009 01:16 PM
By Stephen Smith, Globe Staff
The annual spread of West Nile virus in Massachusetts has accelerated, with health authorities reporting today that mosquitoes carrying the disease have been detected in Westborough and Westford. Yesterday, disease specialists reported the virus had been found in insects in Boston's Jamaica Plain neighborhood, and, in July, it was discovered in Walpole.
No human cases of the disease have been reported so far this summer in Massachusetts. In the past five years, 10 people in the state have been diagnosed with the condition.
To avoid being bitten by a mosquito, specialists recommend staying inside from dusk to dawn, peak mosquito-biting time. If outdoor activity is necessary at night, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks. Bug repellants such as DEET, permethrin, picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus can also provide protection. DEET should not be used on infants younger than 2 months and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be on children younger than 3 years.
Homeowners can take measures that reduce mosquitoes' breeding grounds, including draining flower pots, wading pools, and gutters.
