West Nile Virus Detected in Mosquito Test Sample in Jamaica Plain

The risk remains low, but Boston Public Health Commission encourages residents to take precautions.

July 9, 2026 - The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) today announced that a mosquito test sample obtained from Jamaica Plain tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The virus is carried by mosquitoes and can be spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.

This is the first sample to test positive for the virus in Boston this summer. BPHC partners with the Suffolk County Mosquito Control Project to protect Boston residents from mosquito-borne disease transmission. They collect mosquito samples from traps around Boston every week during the summer and early fall. The latest information on test results can be found at boston.gov/mosquito.

While there are currently no confirmed human cases of West Nile Virus among Boston residents and the risk of transmission is low, BPHC encourages all residents to take steps to protect themselves and their families. The best way to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus is by avoiding mosquito bites. BPHC recommends the following strategies:

• Regularly empty out and clean bird baths, unused flowerpots, and other vessels containing standing water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Flip over unused kiddie pools and dispose of old tires, which are also known to collect rainwater that attracts mosquitoes for breeding.
• Regularly clean out gutters and remove any debris or blockages.
• Avoid spending extended periods of time outdoors from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear long clothing and high socks to keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
• Use EPA-approved insect repellents like DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, picaridin, or IR3535.
• Make sure screens in windows and doors fit properly and do not have any holes.

"These test results are an important reminder that everyone needs to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses this time of year," said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston. "West Nile Virus can be dangerous, particularly for seniors and other vulnerable populations. Everyone should protect themselves and their communities by draining pockets of standing water where mosquitoes thrive and wearing insect repellent. BPHC will continue to work with our partners to monitor this situation and keep residents informed."

Most people who are infected with West Nile Virus do not experience any signs or symptoms of illness. In some cases, however, people will experience a headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and body aches which can last for a few days or several weeks. In most cases, individuals with mild symptoms recover on their own without needing medical assistance.

People who are older than 50 years of age are at higher risk of developing serious symptoms, including high fever, neck stiffness, severe headache, confusion, lack of coordination, tremors, vision loss, and muscle paralysis or weakness. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, contact a health care provider immediately. More information on WNV and other mosquito-borne illnesses is available on BPHC's website.

• Published by: Boston Public Health Commission