State Health Officials Announce Ninth Human Case of West Nile Virus in Massachusetts
Some risk for WNV will continue until there is a hard frost
BOSTON (October 24, 2025) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the season’s ninth human case of West Nile virus (WNV) diagnosed in a man in his 50s with exposure in Middlesex County.
No risk level increases are indicated at this time of year. At the end of October, municipalities at high risk for WNV will be reduced to moderate until there is a hard frost.
“This case is a reminder that WNV infections can occur even in the fall, and we should remain vigilant,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “We are now past the peak season for West Nile virus in Massachusetts, but some risk will continue until the first hard frost, and we are still reminding everyone to continue to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites.”
The first WNV-positive mosquitoes in the state this year were announced on June 17. There were a total of 451 mosquito samples that tested positive for WNV this season from Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, and Worcester counties. There was also one animal case of WNV this year in a goat.
In addition to WNV, Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) was detected in mosquitoes in Massachusetts this year. There were 23 EEE-positive mosquito samples and no human or animal cases.
Surveillance information, including case updates, will continue to be updated as needed and posted online at the Massachusetts Arbovirus Update.
People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes.
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