A bird found in southeast Lynn tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to a city press release.
“Additional preventative mosquito spraying will not be done at this time,” the statement read. “Northeast Mosquito Control will be collecting additional mosquito samples in the city of Lynn. These samples will be checked for West Nile Virus in mosquito species that tend to bite humans.”
There have been 27 positive cases of West Nile found in Massachusetts this year, according to the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. That includes three samples collected in Medford and one from Malden.
You can reduce the risk of contracting West Nile by reducing the ways mosquitoes breed and bite, according to a tip sheet provided by the state. When possible, wear long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors; discard standing water to limit places where mosquitoes could lay eggs; and to empty unused flowerpots, wading pools and tarps that collect water; and change water in birdbaths frequently.
For more information on protecting yourself from mosquito bites, visit www.NEMASSMOSQUITO.org.