A West Nile Virus (WNV) positive mosquito sample was detected in the neighboring community of West Springfield as part of ongoing mosquito monitoring in the region. Additional monitoring will be conducted in West Springfield and Holyoke. More information can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-arbovirus-update
WNV is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. More information about different types of mosquitoes that can spread WNV can be found on the MDPH website at www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito.
There are simple steps that you can take to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites and the illnesses they can cause. Protect yourself from illness by doing simple things:
Use insect repellents any time you are outdoors
Wear long-sleeved clothing
Schedule outdoor activities to avoid the hours from dusk to dawn during peak mosquito season
Repair damaged window and door screens
Remove standing water from the areas around your home