Additional West Nile Virus-Positive Mosquito Sample Detected in Falmouth
Barnstable County public health officials are advising residents and visitors to continue taking precautions against mosquito bites following another West Nile virus (WNV)-positive mosquito sample detected in Falmouth.
Latest Detection in Falmouth
A sample of 45 Culex pipiens/restuans mosquitoes trapped near Woods Hole Road on September 1 tested positive for West Nile virus.
Earlier this season, WNV-positive mosquito samples were also detected in Barnstable, Falmouth, Eastham, and Chatham.
The Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project has been treating catch basins and containers holding water in areas surrounding the latest positive sample.
Mosquito Season Is Not Over, Risk Continues into September
The continued detection of West Nile virus is an important reminder that mosquito season is not over. The majority of mosquito-borne disease cases occur during August and September, making continued precautions especially important at this time of year.
Mosquitoes that can transmit WNV are active at dusk and after dark. They commonly lay their eggs in standing water found in man-made containers such as tires, tarps, gutters, buckets, flowerpots, and children’s toys.
Residents can help reduce mosquito populations around their homes by regularly checking their property for standing water and dumping it out.
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease found in Massachusetts. Most people who become infected never develop symptoms.
About 1 in 5 people may experience a mild illness that can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Joint pain
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Skin rash
When West Nile Virus Can Become Serious
In rare cases, the virus can affect the brain or nervous system, leading to serious illness such as encephalitis or meningitis.
Adults over age 50 and people with weakened immune systems have a higher chance of developing severe illness.
How to Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
A few simple steps can greatly reduce your chance of being bitten by mosquitoes.
Use an EPA-Registered Insect Repellent
Choose a repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (for children over 3 years old), or another EPA-approved active ingredient. Always follow the product label directions.
Cover Exposed Skin
When mosquitoes are active, wear long sleeves, long pants, socks, and shoes whenever practical.
Take Extra Precautions from Dusk Through Dawn
Many mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus and EEE are most active from dusk through dawn. If possible, limit outdoor activities during these hours or use extra protection.
Eliminate Standing Water Around Your Home
Mosquitoes can lay eggs in very small amounts of water. Once a week:
- Empty buckets, flowerpot saucers, toys, and tarps.
- Clean birdbaths and pet water bowls.
- Clear clogged gutters.
- Cover or drain rain barrels and other water containers.
Keep Mosquitoes Outside
Repair window and door screens and keep doors closed when possible.
Stay Informed Throughout Mosquito Season
Mosquito surveillance is one of the most important tools Massachusetts uses to monitor mosquito-borne diseases. As the season continues, public health officials will continue testing mosquito samples and updating community risk levels as needed.
Residents and visitors should continue taking mosquito-bite prevention measures throughout mosquito season, regardless of whether positive samples have been detected in their individual community.
How the Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project Helps
The Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project (CCMCP) plays an important role in protecting residents and visitors across Barnstable County.
Its team:
- Conducts mosquito surveillance.
- Collects mosquito samples for testing.
- Monitors mosquito populations.
- Treats areas where mosquito breeding is occurring.
- Works to reduce mosquitoes using an Integrated Mosquito Management approach.
This work provides information that helps state and local public health officials understand where mosquito-borne viruses are circulating and whether additional prevention measures are needed.
Report High Mosquito Activity
If you are experiencing unusually high mosquito activity around your property, the Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project can investigate and provide guidance.
Call the Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project at 508-775-1510 or visit the Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project website.
Resources
For additional information about West Nile virus, mosquito-borne illness, current risk levels, and mosquito prevention, visit the resources below.
| Website | Information Available |
|---|---|
| Mosquito-Borne Viruses – Barnstable County | Overview of mosquito-borne viruses and information on reducing your risk of mosquito bites. |
| West Nile Virus (WNV) – Massachusetts Department of Public Health | Information about West Nile virus, including symptoms, transmission, and prevention. |
| Massachusetts Arbovirus Update – Massachusetts Department of Public Health | Current information on mosquito samples and human and animal cases, along with WNV and EEE risk maps. |
| About West Nile – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention | CDC information about West Nile virus, symptoms, prevention, and treatment. |
| Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project | Information about mosquito surveillance, mosquito control, and reporting mosquito activity. |
