West Nile Virus Detected in BrooklineOn July 19, 2012 the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) confirmed the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV) in mosquitoes collected in South Brookline near the West Roxbury line.  This indicates that the virus may be present in mosquitoes throughout the Town. 

The Brookline Department of Public Health is involved in active surveillance for mosquito-borne viruses. Dead

bird reports are no longer collected by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and dead birds are

no longer tested for WNV as MDPH has determined that tracking and testing of dead birds is no longer a useful

way to monitor WNV activity. Mosquito collecting and testing, which provide a more reliable indication of

current WNV activity, began in June. For further information, call the MDPH Information line at 1-866-627-7968.

Brookline will be doing the following to address mosquito-borne viruses this summer and fall:

 Larvicide is being applied to targeted catch basins and some wetland areas to prevent hatching of new mosquitoes;

 Mosquito traps have been established and mosquito pools are being tested for the virus;

 An information line is established at (617) 730-2295 and at www.brooklinema.gov;

 Mosquito-borne virus information appears on the Town web site with a link to the State Lab including updated

mosquito count and test results;

 There is inspection and enforcement of standing water areas in parks, fields, tires, etc.;

 Spraying to kill adult mosquitoes may be done, only if absolutely necessary, and if recommended by the State. Every

effort will be made to notify residents of the spraying beforehand.

What can I do to protect myself?

Avoid Bites! Follow these steps:

 Avoid outdoor activity between dusk and dawn. If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear a longsleeved

shirt, long pants and socks. Cover baby carriages or playpens that are outdoors with mosquito netting;

 When outside, use a mosquito repellent. Repellents that contain DEET are the most effective, although DEET should

not be used on infants. This year, the CDC also recommends products which contain either the chemical Picaridin,

found in Cutter Advanced; or products containing the oil of lemon eucalyptus. Alternatives to DEET that can also be

effective for a limited duration (1hour) on the market are: citronella; Avon Skin-So-Soft Plus IR3535; Buzz Away,

neem oil, and soybean oil;

 Avoid areas that tend to have a lot of mosquitoes, such as wetlands or swampy areas;

 Fix holes in all window and door screens;

 Remove standing or stagnant water in your yard where mosquitoes are likely to breed. Check your flower pots,

wheelbarrows, garbage cans, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, clogged gutters on your house, old tires, etc.;

 Repair leaking pipes and outdoor faucets;

 Keep your grass cut short and bushes near your house trimmed so mosquitoes can’t hide;

 Call the health department if you see standing water problems that are not on your property.

For further information or to report stagnant water (more than 10 days) or other complaints, please call the

Brookline Department of Public Health at 617-730-2300.