West Nile Virus In Milford: Positive Sample Found In Trap

Milford MA

15 September, 2021

3:12 PM

Description

MILFORD, MA — The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project will conduct spraying in a Milford neighborhood this week after the discovery of a positive West Nile Virus sample, according to the health department. A mosquito caught in a trap along Camp Street on Milford near the Hopkinton line tested positive for the virus, the most common mosquito-borne illness in the U.S. A treatment to kill mosquitoes will be applied in that area on Thursday. So far this summer, six Massachusetts residents have tested positive for West Nile. About 114 mosquitos have tested positive for the virus, which often does not cause symptoms, but can lead to a flu-like illness that is deadly in rare cases. Milford is still rated a "low" risk community for West Nile transmission — however, nearby towns including Grafton, Upton, Mendon, Northbridge and Uxbridge are all rated "moderate" risk. Milford health officials are advising residents to wear proper insect repellent, to cover skin while venturing outdoors and to avoid prime mosquito hours during the morning and evening. Homeowners should also make sure to empty standing water, which can be used for mosquito breeding.