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I’m not usually one to be concerned about infectious diseases. I don’t always wash my hands before eating and I eat food off the floor. But I do have to confess that as I read today’s Boston Globe article about the spike in Massachusetts’ mosquito populations and the spread of West Nile Virus, I can’t help but look down at the eight (or so) bites on my ankles with a little apprehension.

From the Globe:

The Northern house mosquito has thrived in puddles of water left by the summer's intermittent rainstorms. Evidence of West Nile virus has emerged unusually early in the biting season, Gilchrist said.

The virus was first found this year in a pool of mosquitoes in Worcester on July 2, about a month earlier than last year. "It means more opportunity for the virus to build up," said Alfred DeMaria, state epidemiologist. "The early season amplifies the virus."

Uh oh. But as I scratch my already swollen bites, I keep reading:

No human cases of the virus have been reported in Massachusetts this year.

Phew! No need to order a mosquito net, except…

Between 2000 and 2007, 59 people were identified as being infected, and six died.

The West Nile virus usually spreads to humans through a mosquito's bite. Illness ranges from a mild fever to more serious diseases like encephalitis or meningitis.

Now I’m starting to get worried again. Maybe it’s time to reach for some DEET? But then again…

Less than 1 percent of those infected develop serious symptoms.

Ok, I’ll play the odds. After all, a little scratching and a small chance of catching West Nile are still better than slathering up with who-knows-what chemicals. (I’ve seen bug repellant dissolve plastic in a matter of minutes…seriously…)

[From the Boston Globe, via The Daily Green]

Image from Flickr user tankawho shared with a Creative Commons Attribution License.

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