In what has become a summertime rite of passage, the first West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes have been found in Belmont.
The state Department of Public Health announced the discovery Thursday.
The virus first emerged in the United States in 1999. It has since spread to most places where mosquitoes are active. This summer, the first sample in Massachusetts was found in June.
The disease can be transmitted to humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, eight of 10 people infected show no symptoms. Of those infected, roughly one in five develop a fever, along with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months. One in 150 people develops severe symptoms that can impact the central nervous system. In rare cases, the disease is fatal.
According to a press release from the state, the illness can hit people of all ages, but people older than 50 are at greater risk for severe infection.
There is no treatment for the virus, so the state urges prevention:
- Use insect repellent outdoors.
- Wear long sleeves and pants to prevent mosquito bites.
- Be aware of peak mosquito activity times, usually dusk to dawn are peak biting times.
- Drain standing water around your home.
- Install or repair window screens.
