MELROSE — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has announced that the risk level for West Nile Virus (WNV) in Melrose and in Middlesex County has been elevated to high. This increase follows the confirmation of two new human cases of WNV, bringing the total to six in Massachusetts this year. One of these recent cases occurred in southern Middlesex County, underscoring the heightened risk in our area.
With the WNV risk level now high, it is crucial for residents to take preventive measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites, which are the primary mode of transmission for WNV.
Increased risk for older adults and immunocompromised persons
Older adults, particularly those over the age of 50, are at greater risk of developing severe illness from WNV. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe neurological conditions, such as encephalitis or meningitis. The City of Melrose strongly encourages older residents and those with weakened immune systems to take extra precautions:
• Apply insect repellent: Use repellents containing DEET, permethrin, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Follow the product instructions and avoid using DEET on infants under two months of age.
• Avoid peak mosquito hours: Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities during these times or take extra precautions if you must be outside.
• Wear protective clothing: Long sleeves, long pants, and socks can help prevent mosquito bites.
• Mosquito-proof your home: Ensure that windows and doors have tight-fitting screens and eliminate standing water around your property where mosquitoes breed.
To further combat the mosquito population, the East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project will conduct truck-mounted aerosol spraying in designated areas of Melrose. The spray will use Zenivex E4, a reduced-risk pesticide that poses minimal danger to people and pets. Spraying will begin after sunset, and residents are advised to stay indoors for a few minutes while the spray
dissipates and to close their windows during the spraying. Beekeepers need not take special precautions. For additional information on mosquito control efforts, residents can contact the East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project at 781-899-5730 or visit their website at www.sudbury.ma.us/emmcp/.
The City of Melrose encourages all residents to remain vigilant and take these precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones. More information on WNV and other mosquito-borne illnesses is available on the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website at www.mass.gov/mosquito-borne-diseases.
