The Somerville Health and Human Services recently reported that testing by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) has detected West Nile Virus (WNV) in mosquitoes collected from Somerville. However, Somerville remains at a “Moderate” risk level for WNV.

There have been no animal or human cases of WNV reported in the state so far this season.

MDPH recommends the following safety measures as precautions:

• Avoid mosquito bites.
• Apply insect repellent when you go outdoors.
• Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites.
• Be aware of peak mosquito hours.
• Mosquito-proof your home.
• Drain standing water.
• Install or repair screens.
• Protect your animals.
• Animal owners should reduce potential mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water from containers such as buckets, tires, and wading pools – especially after heavy rains.
• Owners should also speak with their veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for animal use and vaccinations to prevent WNV.
• If an animal is suspected of having WNV, owners are required to report to the Department of Agricultural Resources, Division of Animal Health, by calling 617-626-1795, and to the Department of Public Health by calling 617-983-6800.

Play it safe and follow the DPH recommendations to stay safer and get through the summer without incident.