Four Cambridge Residents Diagnosed with West Nile Virus this Season. Cambridge Response to Human West Nile Virus Cases and Updates as of Aug. 31


8/31/2012

west nile virus

State health offiicials reported today that two more Cambridge residents have been diagnosed with West Nile virus (WNV).  One resident is a woman in her 40s and the other resident is a woman in her 70s. Neither woman was hospitalized and both are recovering from the illness.  Earlier in August, the state confirmed two other cases of WNV in Cambridge residents. 

The Cambridge Public Health Department leads the City's response to the risks posed by West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.

While Cambridge residents of all ages are at risk for severe illness from West Nile virus, people over 50 are at greatest risk.

The easiest and best way to prevent West Nile virus is to avoid mosquito bites through October. The Cambridge Public Health Department is encouraging residents—especially people over 50—to consider rescheduling outdoor evening activities through October or take simple actions to prevent mosquito bites when outdoors during evening and night hours.

The Health Department also urges residents to remove or treat stagnant water near their homes. For the more information, visit the Health Department’s West Nile Virus webpage.