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10.3.2000 00:05
Mosquitoes test negative
for West Nile virus, EEE
The 78 pools of mosquitoes collected from 39 traps statewide on Sept. 18 all tested negative for the West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis, the state Department of Environmental Management announced Thursday.
Two mosquito pools -- one from Charlestown and the other from South Kingstown -- showed the presence of Highlands J virus. This virus, while not affecting humans, is an indication that the EEE virus may also be present in the area.
Since late May, 178 birds have been tested for West Nile virus and EEE; results for another 28 are pending. Of the birds tested, 20 have tested positive for West Nile and three tested positive for EEE. The West Nile virus was also found in a horse, which was euthanized.
Results are pending for 54 pools of mosquitoes from 27 traps set on Sept. 15.
The DEM expects that birds infected with the West Nile virus will continue to be found for the next few weeks. The DEM has halted mosquito spraying, however, because the cooler weather makes pesticides less effective.
For more information, call DEM's Mosquito Information Line at 1-800-942-7474.
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