The Board of Health has been notified by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health that a mosquito collection from the Central Mass Mosquito Control Projects (CMMCP) traps in Billerica has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV).  The CMMCP will continue surveillance and to treat larvicide in catch basins in Billerica.

The CMMCP will also be conducting a conducting a truck mounted, ultra low volume mosquito control spray application in Billerica in specific areas tomorrow night (8/16/24) beginning at 8:30 PM, for more information on spray areas please visit: https://www.cmmcp.org/home/pages/tentative-spray-areas.  The ultra low volume mosquito control spray application allows the CMMCP to control adult mosquitoes using the least amount of pesticide possible.  Please call CMMCP at 508-393-3055 if you have questions concerning this application.

Please take the following steps to prevent mosquitos from biting you:

• Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, if possible, since this is the time when mosquitoes are most active.
• If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants.
• Use a mosquito repellent that contains DEET (the chemical N-N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) and follow the directions on the label. DEET can be toxic if overused. Never use DEET on infants. Avoid using repellents with DEET concentrations above 10-15% for children and with concentrations above 30-35% for adults. Cream, lotion or stick formulas are best. Avoid products with high amounts of alcohol.
• Most mosquito repellents will remain effective for many hours, so it is not necessary to reapply the repellent. Once inside, wash off insect repellents thoroughly with soap and water.
• Take special care to cover up the arms and legs of children playing outdoors. When you bring a baby outdoors, cover the baby’s carriage or playpen with mosquito netting.
• Fix any holes in your screens and make sure they are tightly attached to all your doors and windows.