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Boston Health Officials Announce City’s 1st Death From West Nile Virus Disease

9/13/2002 - Released by Mayor's Office
For more information contact Kristin O’Connor or Tom Lyons: (617) 534-7148

87 year-old South Boston woman passes away. Health officials remind residents to continue taking precautions against mosquito bites.

BOSTON -- The Boston Public Health Commission announced today that an 87 year-old South Boston woman, recently hospitalized with West Nile Virus (WNV) disease, has died.

The death is the 2nd WNV fatality in Massachusetts this year. The September 6 death of an 81 year- old Weymouth man from WNV disease was also confirmed today by Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

The only other known human WNV disease infection in Boston involves an 86 year-old Roslindale man who remains hospitalized. His condition over the past several days has improved.

Although new information about WNV is emerging, it appears that people over the age of 50 are at an increased risk of developing severe illness. It is widely believed that mosquitoes remain in the environment until the first hard frost of the season. Health officials are reminding Boston residents, especially those over 50, that taking simple precautions can reduce the risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito. Those steps include;
  • Using mosquito repellent that contains DEET or another EPA approved repellent -- Follow the directions on the container, and when using DEET on children, use lower concentrations (10 percent or less). Do not use DEET on infants.
  • Limiting outdoor activities when mosquitoes are most active -- After sunset, mosquito activity increases a great deal. If outside during that time, wear clothing that covers most of your body.
  • Making sure window and door screens are in good repair -- This will help prevent mosquitoes from getting into your home.
Reducing mosquito-breeding areas.

Mosquitoes need water to breed. Make sure that items like these don’t collect water:
  • Containers -- Turn over or cover unused flower pots, garbage cans, recycle bins and wheelbarrows. Clean bird baths weekly.
  • Old Tires -- Cover or dispose of them; they’re one of mosquitoes’ favorite places to breed.
  • Pools -- Keep pools clean and chlorinated. Cover unused pools, and be sure to keep covers from collecting standing water or leaves.
  • Gutters -- Remove leaves and other debris that can clog gutters and trap water.
Information line established.

Boston residents seeking more information on WNV can contact the City of Boston’s WNV Information line. The automated phone line, available in both English and Spanish, provides prevention tips, and instructions on what residents can do if they find a dead bird in their neighborhood.

The number for the WNV Information line is (617) 534-2652. Information is also available on the City of Boston web site: www.cityofboston.gov.

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