West Nile Virus Found In New Bedford
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health informed regional health officials that West Nile virus was found last week in a mosquito sample from the Hicks Logan neighborhood in New Bedford.
The risk of West Nile infection remains low statewide, meaning infection is unlikely, according to a press release from the state's public health agency. The mosquito that tested positive mainly bites birds. Despite this, mosquitoes carrying the virus can still be found throughout the city.
Residents should take precautions when outdoors and stay alert during the summer months.
The Bristol County Mosquito Project plans to do extra ground-spraying early Thursday morning, August 1, south of Interstate 195 and east of Route 18. This spraying is in addition to the regular weekly spraying from June through September, targeting parks and places with large public events. Spraying happens every Thursday between 2 a.m. and sunrise in areas around Buttonwood Park, Brooklawn Park, Fort Taber, Hazelwood Park, Riverside Park, Clasky Common Park, Ashley Park, Wing's Court, Custom House Square, and other parts of downtown New Bedford.
Residents near these areas should close their windows at night before spraying. If there is bad weather, spraying will be moved to early Friday morning.
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