State officials have reported another case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in Rhode Island. The virus was detected in a mosquito sample collected by the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) in East Providence on September 22. Testing was conducted by the Rhode Island State Health Laboratories.
According to DEM and the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), other mosquito samples from across the state did not show signs of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV), or additional cases of WNV. The risk level for WNV remains high throughout Rhode Island.
Last week, RIDOH announced the state’s first probable human case of WNV this year. So far this season, 14 mosquito samples have tested positive for WNV. Residents can view weekly test results on RIDOH’s arboviral surveillance data webpage.
WNV is considered the primary mosquito-borne disease in the United States. Most people infected with WNV do not become ill, but about one in five may develop a fever and other symptoms. There are currently no vaccines or medications available to prevent or treat WNV in humans.
For more information about West Nile Virus, residents are encouraged to visit www.health.ri.gov/wnv. Guidance on preventing mosquito bites and related diseases can be found at health.ri.gov/mosquito, while details about mosquito control are available at dem.ri.gov/mosquito.
DEM continues to provide updates through its website and social media channels.
