The risk level for West Nile Virus in the Boston area was raised to “high” on Wednesday, the city’s Public Health Department said.
Health officials said there are currently no confirmed cases of West Nile Virus among Boston residents, but the agency urged residents to protect themselves and avoid mosquito bites.
The health department said risk level was raised “due to ongoing evidence of mosquito samples in Boston carrying the virus.”
“Residents should take precautions like using mosquito repellent and avoiding outdoor activities from dusk to dawn,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Boston’s public health commissioner. “BPHC will continue to monitor the situation closely and ensure that our residents have the information that they need to remain safe.”
Most people who become infected with West Nile Virus show no signs or symptoms of illness, but some may experience headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and body aches that can last a few days to several weeks, officials said.
People over the age of 50 and those who are immunocompromised should avoid being outside during dusk and dawn, the peak times for mosquito activity, health officials said.
Officials encouraged residents to check around their homes for areas and items with standing water that may attract mosquitoes, such as bird baths, unused flower pots, unused kiddie pools, and old tires.
Residents should also clean out their gutters and make sure window and door screens fit properly and have no holes, officials said.
Nick Stoico can be reached at nick.stoico@globe.com.
About the Author
