Three new cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) have been confirmed in Rhode Island, officials warned Friday. Mosquito samples from North Kingstown, Tiverton, and South Kingstown tested positive for the virus, according to the Rhode Island DEM and the Rhode Island Department of Health. The samples were part of 102 collected from traps statewide on August 27.
The rest of the samples tested negative for other mosquito-borne threats, including Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV).
Officials are urging the public to take precautions as the mosquito season heats up. “It’s a particularly active season in Southern New England,” warned RIDOH, with WNV now likely present across the state. The departments are advising Rhode Islanders to protect themselves against mosquito bites, especially during peak activity at dawn and dusk.
“Smart Scheduling” and Aerial Assaults Against Mosquitoes
In an effort to curb the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, the DEM recently deployed larvicide over 3,000 acres in Westerly’s Chapman Swamp and South Kingstown’s Great Swamp. The state is also advising the public, schools, and communities to adopt “smart scheduling” for outdoor events — rescheduling activities outside peak mosquito hours to minimize exposure.