The West Nile virus was found in five more crows in three South County communities last week, but state environmental officials do not plan on spraying these areas because mosquitoes are already dying off with the colder weather. The state Department of Environmental Management expects that more infected birds will be found during the next few weeks. However, the mosquito population will continue to decline as nights get colder and the days get shorter.
Mosquitoes also become less active as the temperatures drop.
The DEM said spraying isn't necessary when nighttime temperatures drop below 60 degrees because mosquitoes aren't active when it is that chilly. However, state officials advised Rhode Islanders to continue taking precautions to avoid being bitten, such as covering up at dusk and at dawn and wearing repellent when venturing into the woods. No mosquitoes have tested positive for the West Nile virus or Eastern Equine Encephalitis. The virus was also found in a horse.