West Nile Virus Detected in Worcester: Here’s What You Need to Know

WORCESTER — A mosquito sample collected on Sandra Drive has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV), according to an announcement by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. While no human cases have been reported in Worcester, the city’s WNV risk level is now considered moderate—and action is being taken.

Spraying Scheduled for August 5

In response, the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project (CMMCP) will begin truck-mounted pesticide spraying in the area where the virus-positive mosquitoes were found on Tuesday, August 5, after 9 p.m., weather permitting. The scheduled spraying is part of the city’s ongoing strategy to reduce mosquito populations and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses.

Want to see if your street is included? The full spraying area map is available on the CMMCP website.

Residents who do not wish to have their property sprayed can opt out through the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources website. But for those staying in the area during spraying, here’s what you need to do:

• Close any windows facing the street
• Turn off “outside air” settings on air conditioners
• Keep pets and kids indoors between sunset and midnight
• Stay inside during and 15–20 minutes after spraying
• Rinse off homegrown produce before eating

CMMCP assures that the pesticide is similar to what’s used for flea and tick control, and accidental exposure to pets or humans is not expected to cause harm. Still, anyone with chemical sensitivities should check in with their doctor.

Additional Dates & Services

If you miss the August 5 spraying, don’t worry. CMMCP is planning to return to Worcester on August 12, 19, and 26 to respond to additional mosquito-related complaints—again, weather dependent.

Besides spraying, CMMCP also offers services like ditch maintenance and abandoned pool treatment. Requests can be made at cmmcp.org or by calling 508-393-3055 (Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–3:30 p.m.).

Stay in the Know

To get updates about spraying and emergency alerts, make sure you’re signed up for ALERTWorcester: worcesterma.gov/emergency-communications/alertworcester

How to Protect Yourself

This is your reminder to follow the 5 Ds of mosquito prevention:

• DRESS in long sleeves and pants
• Use DEET or another approved insect repellent
• Avoid being outside at DAWN & DUSK
• DRAIN any standing water weekly
• Keep DOORS and screens secure to stop mosquitoes from getting inside

People over 50 are at a higher risk of severe illness if infected with WNV, though most infected people won’t show any symptoms. A small percentage may experience fever, body aches, or more serious neurological effects.

In 2024, Massachusetts saw 19 human cases of West Nile Virus, so while the numbers are relatively low, public health officials are taking no chances.

The Worcester Division of Public Health is monitoring the situation closely and will begin case management if a local case is confirmed.

Final Buzz

Let’s keep Worcester safe—spray dates, alerts, and health guidance all matter. We’ll continue covering developments and bringing you the facts as they unfold.

🦟 For full info on mosquito-borne illnesses and updated case data, visit mass.gov/mosquito-borne-diseases.

Stay alert. Stay safe. And if you’ve got standing water, drain it.

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