The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced that the West Nile virus wad detected in a mosquito collected from Swampscott.

West Nile Virus is most commonly transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become carriers of the virus after feeding on infected birds. Mosquitoes carrying the virus are common throughout Massachusetts and can be found in both urban and rural areas. As of now, no human cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in Massachusetts, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“Female mosquitoes pick up the virus from infected birds and spread it to humans through bites,” the Swampscott Health Department advises. “It spreads only through the bite of an infected mosquito. You cannot catch it from other people or live animals.”

A mosquito with the West Nile virus was found in Swampscott around the same time of season last summer.

At the time of posting, Swampscott is still considered low risk on the map reported by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The CDC lists non-human West Nile virus activity in Berkshire, Worcester and Norfolk Counties.

Although West Nile virus can affect people of all ages, those over 50 face a higher risk of severe illness. According to 2023 U.S. Census Bureau data, Swampscott’s median age is 45.3, with nearly 6,600 residents over 50.

Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn, when biting is most likely to occur. 

“By taking a few, common sense precautions, people can help to protect themselves and their loved ones,” the Swampscott Health Department announced.

The Swampscott Health Department recommends using insect repellent when spending time outdoors. A repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] is recommended.

However, DEET should not be used on infants under two months old and should be limited to concentrations of 30% or less for older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should also not be used on children under three years old.

Wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks can also help reduce mosquito bites by limiting skin exposure.

To reduce mosquito breeding, the Swampscott Health Department advises draining standing water – such as wading pools, flower pots, and birdbaths – where mosquitoes often lay eggs. Installing screens on doors and windows can help keep mosquitoes out of the home.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms of West Nile Virus can include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. About one in five people, or 20%, who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About one in 150 infected people, or .67%, develop a serious and sometimes fatal illness. 

There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile Virus in humans.