SHEFFIELD, Mass. — A mosquito collected on July 8 has tested positive for West Nile Virus.

 

The mosquito was the first confirmed carrier of the disease in the Berkshires this year. In previous years both West Nile and Equine Encephalitis have been confirmed in the county. There has only been one confirmed case of it in a human, which was in 2012 when an elderly woman was hospitalized with West Nile.

 

The Berkshire County Mosquito Control Project does the collecting as well as a number of methods to kill the mosquitos. The pests typically come out in large numbers after flooding because adults lay their larva in flood planes. When water floods, it activates the process and millions of mosquitos are born at one, rising from the water.

 

The project focuses on preventive measures like getting rid of standing water, where the mosquitos congregate, and lay down pesticides to kill the larva. When mosquito numbers rise to a certain level, the project will authorize spraying in certain areas.

 

The spraying has become somewhat controversial in Pittsfield where a number of residents have opposed the measure citing health and environmental concerns.

 

The best way to avoid contracting the viruses to avoid or eliminate mosquitos. Basic tips include:

 

• Take precautions, especially, during the peak biting times of dusk and dawn by wearing long-sleeves, pants and socks when outdoors; apply repellent.

 

• Drain or get rid of items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently. Use larvicide where appropriate.

 

• Make sure screens are tight fitting on doors and windows.