The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) have reported new detections of West Nile Virus (WNV) in East Providence. The virus was identified in mosquito samples collected by DEM on September 2 and tested at the Rhode Island State Health Laboratories. No evidence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV), or additional WNV was found in other samples collected across the state.
Rhode Island continues to face a high risk level for WNV statewide, according to officials. So far this season, 12 mosquito samples have tested positive for WNV, but there have been no reported human or animal cases of mosquito-borne diseases in the state this year.
“WNV is the main mosquito-borne disease in the US. While most people with WNV don’t get sick, about one in five people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people. For more information about WNV, visit www.health.ri.gov/wnv,” RIDOH stated.
Residents can check weekly test results on RIDOH’s arboviral surveillance data webpage and find guidance on preventing mosquito bites at health.ri.gov/mosquito. Information about mosquito control is available at dem.ri.gov/mosquito.
For updates on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov or follow DEM on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter/X (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem).
