Is there West Nile in Massachusetts?
Seven human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Massachusetts so far in 2021. All four individuals were exposed or likely exposed to the virus in Middlesex County.
How many cases of West Nile are in Massachusetts?
People who develop severe illness with WNV are most often reported. There was 11 human cases of WNV in Massachusetts in 2020. Between 2011 and 2020, 148 people were reported with WNV infection in Massachusetts. Seven of these people died.
How long after being bitten do you get West Nile virus?
Most West Nile virus infections happen during warm weather, when mosquitoes are active. The incubation period — the period between when you’re bitten by an infected mosquito and the appearance of signs and symptoms of the illness — generally ranges from four to 10 days.
What are symptoms of West Nile virus?
About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with febrile illness due to West Nile virus recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months. Serious symptoms in a few people.
Who is at risk for West Nile virus?
Severe illness can occur in people of any age; however, people over 60 years of age are at greater risk. People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and people who have received organ transplants, are also at greater risk.
Is West Nile virus fatal?
There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people. Fortunately, most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness.
Can the West Nile virus be cured?
Because it’s a viral condition, West Nile virus doesn’t have a cure. But you can take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to relieve symptoms of West Nile virus such as muscle aches and headaches.
Should I be worried about the West Nile virus?
Like other viruses, the very young, the elderly and people who are immunocompromised are at greatest risk for West Nile. “Serious cases of West Nile virus are so rare that it is not something people should worry about or stay inside all summer to avoid.
What is the West Nile Virus (WNV)?
Fact sheet about West Nile Virus. West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-carried virus that can cause illness ranging from a mild fever to more serious disease like encephalitis or meningitis. It was first identified in the United States in 1999.
How many people have been infected with WNV in Massachusetts?
Because most people who are exposed to WNV have no symptoms, it is difficult to know exactly how many people have been infected. People who develop severe illness with WNV are most often reported. Between 2011 and 2020, 148 people were reported with WNV infection in Massachusetts. Seven of these people died.
Where can I find more information about WNV?
More information about different types of mosquitoes that can spread WNV can be found on the MDPH website at www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito. WNV may also be spread through blood transfusion or organ transplant. In addition, there are rare reports of WNV being passed from pregnant or breastfeeding women, who are infected with WNV, to their babies.
Does MDPH test for WNV on dead birds in Massachusetts?
From 2000 to 2008, MDPH collected reports and ran tests for WNV on dead birds in Massachusetts as one of several ways to monitor WNV activity across the state. In recent years, this method has become less useful for finding the virus. Many other states have discontinued dead bird reporting and testing.