Local Woman Recovering From West Nile Virus Infection

A Bristol County woman in her 60s is recovering from a West Nile Virus infection, according to the Rhode Island Department of Health. The local case is reportedly Rhode Island’s third this year.

“Though the days are getting shorter and cooler, Rhode Islanders must remain vigilant against the threat of mosquito-borne illness until the first hard frost,” said Michael Fine, director of the health department. “Personal protection and smart scheduling of outdoor activities must remain priorities for everyone.”

Avoiding outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active, is an important protection from the threat of mosquito-borne illness. The health department also has advised school districts and city and town officials to use “smart scheduling” for outdoor activities, such as athletic practices and games, to help athletes, coaches and spectators avoid exposure during peak mosquito activity times.

The health department also encourages all Rhode Islanders to take personal protection measures, such as wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts and using bug spray with no more than 30 percent DEET, when they are outside during dawn or dusk hours.

Other important protection measures include placing mosquito netting over infant playpens and carriages when outside, and making sure that screens are in good repair.

It is also important to eliminate standing water in yards or in other public gathering places.

A mosquito pool in central Barrington recently tested positive for EEE.