A mosquito found in Oak Bluffs this week has tested positive for West Nile virus. It is the third infected mosquito found on Martha’s Vineyard this summer.
According to the state department of health and human services, the infected mosquito was collected Tuesday. Earlier this month, mosquitoes with West Nile were found in West Tisbury and Tisbury.
West Nile is an infectious disease transmitted through mosquitoes, with birds as the most common host. Mosquitoes carrying West Nile have the potential to spread it to human beings. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, most people infected with West Nile have no symptoms, while about one in five people infected will develop a fever with other symptoms. Fewer than one per cent of those infected develop a serious, sometimes fatal, neurologic illness.
The CDC recommends insect repellent and protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites.
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