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Acushnet health board warns of elevated West Nile risk, limits outdoor activity at dusk
Summary
The Acushnet Board of Health discussed a state-reported rise in West Nile virus and agreed to limit outdoor activities so they finish 15 minutes before dusk; the board noted recent human cases in neighboring counties and reminded residents about tick checks.
The Acushnet Board of Health on a routine agenda item discussed an uptick in West Nile virus risk and set precautionary guidance for residents. An agency official said the state has raised the area to a "high risk" for potential human West Nile virus exposure and the board asked that outdoor activities finish 15 minutes before dusk to reduce mosquito-borne transmission.
The chair noted state data showing human West Nile cases across several counties, saying the Massachusetts Department of Public Health "says that ... there have been 13 West Nile virus human cases" in neighboring counties. The agency official added that wet weather this year has contributed to higher mosquito and tick activity and urged residents to check themselves carefully for ticks.
Board members described steps already taken for local events, including changing hours for fall outdoor athletics, and discussed how the town will communicate the advisory. The board agreed by voice vote to place the surveillance report on file and to post guidance limiting outdoor recreation so activities end 15 minutes before dusk.
The board urged residents to follow Department of Public Health guidance and to report any suspicious illnesses to their health care provider. The board said it will continue to monitor state surveillance and update local guidance as needed.
