Massachusetts on High Alert: Two More Men Contract West Nile Virus, Totaling Three Cases This Season

A fresh wave of concern is sweeping across Massachusetts as public health officials confirm two more human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV), bringing the state's total to three for 2025. These new diagnoses, which emerged just days after the first human case was announced, are a stark reminder that the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses is very real and present in our communities.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) disclosed that the two latest individuals to contract the virus are a man in his 60s residing in Middlesex County and another in his 70s from Suffolk County.

This alarming development has led authorities to elevate the WNV risk level to moderate in significant portions of Middlesex and Suffolk counties, with surrounding communities also urged to exercise increased caution. The news underscores the vulnerability of older adults, who are particularly susceptible to the more severe complications associated with the virus.

For most people, West Nile Virus remains an invisible adversary.

Approximately 80% of those infected will experience no symptoms at all, unknowingly carrying the virus. However, about 20% will develop a milder, flu-like illness characterized by fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. While uncomfortable, these symptoms typically resolve on their own without lasting impact.

Yet, for a small but significant percentage—less than 1% of those infected—WNV can escalate into a severe neurological disease.

This can manifest as encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, or meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The symptoms of severe WNV are frightening and debilitating: high fever, excruciating headache, stiff neck, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and even paralysis.

Such serious complications can result in long-term health issues and, in rare instances, be fatal. Individuals over the age of 50 and those with compromised immune systems face a heightened risk of developing these life-threatening conditions.

In response to this growing public health challenge, officials are intensely emphasizing crucial prevention strategies.

Residents across the Commonwealth are strongly advised to make these protective measures a part of their daily routine:

Arm yourself with repellent: When venturing outdoors, always apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, permethrin, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.

Dress for defense: Opt for long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks, especially when spending time outside during peak mosquito activity.

Time your outings: Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, the prime hours when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite.

Eliminate breeding grounds: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water.

Regularly inspect and empty containers like birdbaths, flower pots, clogged gutters, and wading pools. Remove old tires and any other items that can collect stagnant water.

Fortify your home: Ensure all windows and doors have tight-fitting screens and promptly repair any tears or holes to prevent these unwelcome guests from entering your living space.

Beyond West Nile, the state health department maintains vigilant surveillance for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), another severe mosquito-borne illness.

As WNV cases continue to emerge, the broader imperative remains: consistent public awareness and proactive preventative action are our best lines of defense during the warmer months. Staying informed and taking these crucial steps are paramount to safeguarding our health against these ever-present threats.