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THE ITEM

West Nile detected in Clinton mosquito; spraying planned

Jan Gottesman
Telegram & Gazette

CLINTON — West Nile Virus has been detected in Clinton, according to the Mass. Department of Public Health.

One mosquito collected from the Ridgefield Circle area tested positive. The collection was done July 19.

According to Clinton Health Agent John McNally, the catch basins have already been treated with a larvacide, which works on mosquito eggs and is a long-term project. On the adult side, the Central Mass. Mosquito Control Project will be spraying the quadrant on Monday, July 30. Spraying usually begins at 7 p.m. and will include neighboring roads, including Lancaster and Fox Run roads.

West Nile Virus is most commonly transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. The people most at risk of severe infection are over 50.

The Clinton Board of Health shared some of the Department of Public Health's tips to avoid mosquito bites:

Be aware of peak mosquito hours, which are dusk to dawn. If you are outdoors and notice mosquitoes around you, take steps to avoid being bitten by moving indoors, covering up and/or wearing repellent.

Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites, including long sleeves, long pants and socks.

Apply inspect repellent, particularly one with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus. DEET products should not be used on infants under 2 months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under age 3. Permethrin is intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes and camping gear and should not be applied to the skin.

The DPH advises residents to mosquito-proof their homes:

Drain standing water. Many mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change the water in birdbaths frequently.

Install or repair screens to keep mosquitoes outside.

For information about West Nile and reports of current and historical activity, go to the PDH website, http://www.mass.gov/dph/wnv. For more information, call the Clinton Board of Health at (978) 365-4116, or the Central Mass. Mosquito Control Project at (508) 393-3055.