West Nile risk now high in 10 Massachusetts communities

Massachusetts health officials warn that West Nile virus risk has reached high in ten communities as mosquito activity rises.

West Nile risk now high in 10 Massachusetts communities

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health says West Nile virus risk is high in Acton, Bedford, Billerica, Boston, Brookline, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Dracut, Lowell and Newton, based on recent mosquito testing. Since the first positive mosquito sample was confirmed on June 17, 168 samples across 12 counties have tested positive this year. There have been no human West Nile cases yet, though a goat in Lunenburg was diagnosed with the illness.

Officials note that mosquito activity increases with warm, humid weather. They urge residents to apply insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and avoid outdoor activity from dusk to dawn. They also advise draining standing water, repairing screens, and checking the state’s risk map to see local risk levels for West Nile and EEE, which is at moderate risk in several towns.

This shift shows how public health messaging must adapt as seasonal risk climbs. Targeted alerts help residents in the most affected communities, but there is a challenge to ensure everyone understands practical steps without triggering unnecessary alarm.

The data also underline climate links to vector-borne disease. If weather stays warm and humid, mosquito pressure will rise, potentially straining local clinics and mosquito-control programs. Public health leaders must balance urgency with clarity to keep people protected without causing fatigue or apathy.

Highlights

Public health officials will continue to monitor conditions as the season progresses.