Massachusetts raises West Nile risk in nearly a dozen towns after 6th human case

A sixth human case of West Nile virus has been reported in Massachusetts, prompting the state to raise the risk level in nearly a dozen towns. The case was reported in Worcester County, where a person contracted the virus after being exposed to an infected mosquito. The Health Department is urging residents to take precautions against West Nile virus, which can be spread by mosquitoes.

The risk level has been raised in towns including Fitchburg, Leominster, and Lancaster, among others. The Health Department has not specified which areas are at the highest risk. The West Nile virus has also been reported in other states, including Maryland, according to a map of affected states.

The risk of contracting West Nile virus is generally higher during the summer and early fall months when mosquitoes are most active. Residents are advised to take precautions such as wearing insect repellent, avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours, and removing standing water from their properties to prevent mosquito breeding.