Peabody officials prepare for West Nile Virus

PEABODY – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced last week that the West Nile virus had been detected in the state for the first time this year in Worcester. Although it may be roughly 70 miles away, Peabody Health Director Sharon Cameron wants residents to start protecting themselves sooner rather than later.”The West Nile virus has been found in prior years here in Peabody, so we know it’s around,” said Cameron. “It’s part of the environment at this point. People shouldn’t wait to take precautions?Always assume it’s a concern.”Although there has yet to be a human case in Peabody, Cameron noted that infected birds have been detected in recent years, as have mosquitoes.”There are probably mosquitoes carrying it now,” she said. “But it’s like finding a needle in a haystack. Just because we haven’t found it yet, doesn’t mean it’s not there.”Each week, members of the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control and Wetlands Management District trap mosquitoes so they can test and identify cases of the Eastern equine encephalitis virus (Triple E) and West Nile. They also place larvicide into catch basins to kill breeding mosquitoes and spray residents’ yards with pesticides by request.According to the Massachusetts DPH, the recent rains and hot weather have increased mosquito populations.Two small steps residents can take to reduce the risk of spreading the virus are emptying birdbaths and trash cans.”Those small sources of water can be breeding grounds for mosquitoes,” she said.The state’s DPH offers the following suggestions to avoid getting bit:Be aware of peak mosquito hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during the evening or early morning. Otherwise, take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing.Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, but wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.Apply insect repellent when you go outdoors.Drain standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Check rain gutters and empty any unused pools and flowerpots.Install or repair screens. Some mosquitoes will come indoors, but are prevented from doing so with tight-fitting screens on windows and doors.Report dead birds, as they may be a sign that West Nile is circulating among the birds in your area.For more information or to report any instances, contact the DPH by logging on to www.mass.gov/dph, or contact the Peabody Health Department at 978-538-5926.