Thursday, August 27, 2026 ~ Boston Resident Tests Positive for West Nile Virus, City Officials Urge Precautions

The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) has confirmed the first human case of West Nile Virus in the city this year. The impacted resident, a man in his 60s, is the third case of West Nile Virus in a Massachusetts resident so far this year. The BPHC made the announcement on Thursday, August 27, 2026.

According to the BPHC, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has classified the risk level for West Nile Virus in Boston as "high" due to evidence of mosquitoes carrying the virus in various neighborhoods over the past two months. The virus is primarily spread through mosquito bites.

To reduce the risk of contracting West Nile Virus, officials are urging residents to take precautions and avoid mosquito bites. This includes adjusting outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (dusk to dawn) for those aged 50 and older or those who are immunocompromised. Additionally, regularly emptying and cleaning any containers with standing water, such as bird baths and flowerpots, can prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

Unused kiddie pools and old tires should also be flipped over or disposed of as they can collect rainwater and attract mosquitoes for breeding. Regularly cleaning gutters and ensuring screens on windows and doors are intact can also help prevent mosquito bites.

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Wearing long sleeve clothing and using EPA-approved insect repellents like DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, picaridin, or IR3535 can also provide protection against mosquito bites.

Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston, emphasized the seriousness of West Nile Virus and its potential impact on vulnerable members of the community. "West Nile Virus can result in very serious illness...We encourage everyone to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses," she stated.

While most people infected with West Nile Virus do not experience any symptoms, some may experience mild symptoms such as headache, fever, nausea, and body aches. These symptoms typically last for a few days or weeks and do not require medical attention.

However, individuals over the age of 50 or those who are immunocompromised are at higher risk of developing severe illness. Symptoms in these cases may include high fever and neurologic symptoms such as severe headache, confusion, lack of coordination, and muscle paralysis or weakness. If anyone experiences these symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately.

The BPHC is closely monitoring the situation with their partners at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. More information on West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses can be found on the BPHC's website. Officials urge residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their communities from this potentially dangerous virus.

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