The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) have reported the detection of West Nile Virus (WNV) in mosquito samples collected from East Providence, Westerly, and West Greenwich. The samples were gathered by DEM on August 12 and tested at the Rhode Island State Health Laboratories.
Other mosquito samples collected across the state did not show evidence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV), or additional cases of WNV. Updated weekly test results can be found on RIDOH’s arboviral surveillance data webpage.
According to health officials, WNV is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the United States. Most people infected with WNV do not become ill, but about one in five develop a fever and other symptoms. There are currently no vaccines or specific treatments for WNV in humans. More information about WNV is available at www.health.ri.gov/wnv.
Information on preventing mosquito bites and related diseases can be found at health.ri.gov/mosquito, while guidance on mosquito control is available at dem.ri.gov/mosquito.
Further details about DEM’s programs and initiatives are provided at www.dem.ri.gov. Updates are also posted on DEM’s social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter/X (@RhodeIslandDEM), and Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem). Those interested can sign up to receive press releases and news from DEM’s Public Affairs Office via email.
