10 new human cases of West Nile virus found in Massachusetts, health officials say

(WJAR) — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced Friday that 10 new human cases of West Nile virus were found in the state, increasing the total number of cases to 24.

"We’ve seen four times more West Nile virus human cases this year in the Commonwealth than last year,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel. "It is important that we continue to remember that even with the start of fall and its cooler temperatures, mosquito season is not yet over.”

On Tuesday, public health officials in Massachusetts reported a 12th person contracted the West Nile virus this year.

In 2017, there were six human cases of West Nile Virus found in Massachusetts.

"September is still the peak of transmission season and additional cases of WNV infection are likely to occur," public health officials in Massachusetts said.

People of all ages can be infected by WNV, however, people over the age of 50 are at a higher risk for severe disease.

Most people infected will have no symptoms, but those who are infected will experience fever and flu-like illnesses.

For more information, visit www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito or contact 617-983-6800.