Massachusetts Health Officials Announce Season’s First Human West Nile Virus Case, First Animal EEE Case

On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced this year’s first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) as well as the first animal case of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) in the state. The individual diagnosed with WNV was exposed in Hamden County; the horse infected with EEE was located in Plymouth.

These reported illnesses are a reminder of the importance of protecting against mosquito bites to avoid infection with mosquito-borne illnesses. Risk of West Nile Virus is currently at the Moderate level in Middlesex County, meaning that WNV is likely or has already occurred in the county. Learn more about how to protect against mosquito bites.

Risk of EEE in Middlesex County is remote, the lowest risk level; this means that EEE is not usually found in the area. 

See the state’s August 6 media release for more information about WNV and EEE trends and protecting both humans and animals against infection.