West Nile Virus Detected in Abington Mosquito Sample

ABINGTON - August 13 - A mosquito sample collected from northwest Abington on August 4, 2025, has tested positive for West Nile Virus, local health officials confirm.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) informed Abington authorities about the test results. So far, no human cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in the town.

Lindsay Wright from the Abington Health Department explains in a press release that West Nile Virus most commonly spreads to humans through infected mosquito bites.

To minimize the risk of mosquito bites, officials suggest using EPA-approved repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. They also advise staying indoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Other recommended precautions include wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks outdoors, fixing damaged window and door screens, and getting rid of standing water around homes.

Plymouth County Mosquito Control Project plans to spray throughout the town on the morning of Friday, August 15, 2025.

It's important to eliminate standing water around your property. This means emptying or throwing out containers that collect water, making holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling bins, and keeping swimming pools clean and properly chlorinated.

For more details about West Nile Virus and its current activity in Massachusetts, residents can check www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito.