The virus that causes WNV encephalitis occurs in Europe, Africa and Asia. It was first identified in the United States in New York during the summer of 1999 and during 2000 it was spread to several other Northeastern States. To date, there have been no documented cases of WNV infection in human residents of Massachusetts. Since that time, WNV has been found in mosquito, horse and many other bird specimens in Massachusetts. The mosquitoes that carry this virus are common throughout the state and these mosquitoes are found in the city as well as in the woods and other less populated areas.
Illnesses caused by mosquito bites are very rare .
Very few mosquito bites carry any risk. People who may be infected by mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus will usually experience no illness or very mild illness . Patients with mild symptoms usually recover completely, and do not require any specific medication or laboratory testing. In severe cases, hospitalization may be needed to provide supportive care. The City of Quincy will be an active participant in a statewide plan to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus.