Additional West Nile Virus-Positive Mosquito Samples Detected in Falmouth; First Detection in Chatham
Published on: August 20, 2026
Barnstable County public health officials are advising residents and visitors to continue taking precautions against mosquito bites following additional positive mosquito samples in Falmouth and the detection of positive mosquito samples in Chatham. Earlier this season, West Nile virus (WNV)-positive mosquito samples were detected in Barnstable, Falmouth and Eastham.
As a result, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has raised the level of risk for transmission of WNV from “low” to “moderate” in Eastham, Orleans, Chatham, and Sandwich. The risk level remains at “moderate” for Falmouth, Mashpee, and Barnstable.
The continued detection of positive mosquito samples in multiple Cape Cod communities is an important reminder that residents and visitors across the region should take steps to reduce their chance of being bitten by mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes that transmit WNV commonly lay their eggs in standing water found in man-made containers such as buckets, flowerpots, birdbaths, gutters, and discarded tires. Residents are encouraged to eliminate standing water around their homes, use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors during peak mosquito activity, and ensure window and door screens are in good repair.
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease found in Massachusetts. Most people who become infected never develop symptoms. About 1 in 5 people may experience a mild illness that can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Joint pain
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Skin rash
In rare cases, the virus can affect the brain or nervous system, leading to serious illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. Adults over age 50 and people with weakened immune systems have a higher chance of developing severe illness.
How to Protect Yourself
Fortunately, a few simple steps can greatly reduce your chance of being bitten by mosquitoes.
Use an EPA-registered insect repellent. Choose a repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (for children over 3 years old), or another EPA-approved active ingredient. Always follow the product label directions.
Cover exposed skin. When mosquitoes are active, wear long sleeves, long pants, socks, and shoes whenever practical.
Avoid peak mosquito activity. Many mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus and EEE are most active from dusk through dawn. If possible, limit outdoor activities during these hours or use extra protection.
Eliminate standing water. Mosquitoes can lay eggs in very small amounts of water. Once a week:
- Empty buckets, flowerpot saucers, toys, and tarps.
- Clean birdbaths and pet water bowls.
- Clear clogged gutters.
- Cover or drain rain barrels and other water containers.
- Keep mosquitoes outside. Repair window and door screens and keep doors closed when possible.
Stay Informed
Mosquito surveillance is one of the most important tools Massachusetts uses to monitor mosquito-borne diseases. As the season continues, public health officials will continue testing mosquito samples and updating community risk levels as needed.
Residents and visitors should continue taking mosquito-bite prevention measures throughout mosquito season, regardless of whether positive samples have been detected in their individual community.
Working Together to Protect Cape Cod
The Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project (CCMCP) plays an important role in protecting residents and visitors across Barnstable County. Their team conducts mosquito surveillance, collects mosquito samples for testing, monitors mosquito populations, and works to reduce mosquitoes using an Integrated Mosquito Management approach. This information helps state and local public health officials understand where mosquito-borne viruses are circulating and whether additional prevention measures are needed.
Report
If you are experiencing unusually high mosquito activity around your property, the Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project can investigate and provide guidance. To contact the Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project, call 508-775-1510 or visit the Cape Cod Mosquito Control Project website.
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