Norton Mosquito Sample Tests Positive For West Nile Virus

NORTON, MA — Mosquito samples taken in Norton have tested positive for West Nile virus for the first time this summer.

Norton Board of Health Agent Christian Zahner said in a letter to the community that town received notification of the positive test this week.

"The risk level is still considered to be low, however, we want to remind you all to stay safe and continue to protect yourselves, your loved ones, and pets from mosquito bites," Zahner said. "Use mosquito repellents when outdoors, avoid outdoor activities when possible during the dusk-to-dawn hours, make sure all window and door screens are in good conditions with no holes, and remove any standing water on your property."

Mosquito samples were also found to be positive for West Nile virus this week in Weymouth.

For more information about Eastern equine encephalitis and West Nile virus go here.

The West Nile virus test comes the week that the third case of Eastern equine encephalitis was confirmed in the state this season in Halifax.

Officials with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health raised the risk level for EEE in Halifax from "high" to "critical." The risk levels in East Bridgewater and Hanson have also been raised to high.