Second Human West Nile Virus Case Confirmed in Massachusetts
Massachusetts health officials have confirmed a second human case of the West Nile virus in the state, indicating a high risk.
Boston, MA, August 24, 2026 —
Massachusetts health officials have confirmed a second human case of the West Nile virus (WNV) in the state. The confirmation signals a heightened risk of the mosquito-borne illness within the region.
The specific details regarding the second case, including the individual’s location within Massachusetts and the timeline of infection, were not immediately available.
West Nile virus is typically transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While many infected individuals show no symptoms, WNV can cause serious neurological illness in a small percentage of cases. Symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, and in severe cases, encephalitis or meningitis.
Health officials routinely monitor mosquito populations for the presence of WNV and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), another mosquito-borne virus. This confirmation of a human case underscores the importance of taking preventative measures against mosquito bites.
Residents are advised to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and to eliminate standing water around their homes where mosquitoes can breed.
Story summarized from the original created by WBUR on www.wbur.org, see more information here.
