Mosquito-borne illness West Nile virus has been detected in Methuen and North Andover, authorities said.
Samples from both communities tested positive for the virus this past week; they represent the first confirmed cases in both areas this year.
Spraying is scheduled in Methuen, but not in North Andover, though officials there urged residents to be vigilant in protecting against mosquitoes.
West Nile virus is most commonly transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. While most people affected by the virus will not develop symptoms, some can develop fevers and headaches. Serious symptoms, affecting about 1 in 150 people, include high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, muscle weakness, numbness and paralysis, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
In Methuen, the virus was detected in mosquitoes collected along the Interstate 93 corridor on Aug. 28. In North Andover, a sample collected on Aug. 29 came back with positive results for the virus on Aug. 31.
Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control will conduct targeted spraying in Methuen from 8 to 11 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 4. Inclement weather would push that spraying back to Wednesday.
A mid-sized white truck with the NEMMC seal will be traveling through Methuen neighborhoods to conduct the spraying. Residents and pets should remain inside during this time. Air conditioners can remain on, but doors and windows facing the street should be closed until a half-hour after the truck passes through, according to the city.
North Andover officials urged residents to take precautions such as: rescheduling outdoor activities during peak mosquito times in the hours from dusk until dawn; wearing clothes that cover arms and legs, and/or wearing insect repellant; draining standing water, where mosquitoes tend to lay eggs; and repairing or installing window screens.
The North Andover Health Department is also working with Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control on further surveillance and analysis.
For more information, visit each municipality's website: http://www.cityofmethuen.net and http://northandoverma.gov.
Follow Lisa Kashinsky on Twitter @lisakashinsky.Â
Commented
Sorry, there are no recent results for popular commented articles.