New human West Nile case confirmed in Hampden County

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - The risk level for West Nile Virus has increased to “high” in six more western Massachusetts, communities, following the confirmation that another Hampden County resident had contracted West Nile Virus.

The threat level has been raised to “high,” the second-highest risk level, in Agawam, Easthampton, Hadley, Northampton, Southampton, and Westfield.

According to a news release sent to 22News by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the patient is a man in his 50’s. The DPH did not specify where in Hampden County he lives, but they did say that he was hospitalized, and has since been released. He is the 14th confirmed human case of West Nile Virus in Massachusetts this year.

Under DPH guidelines, the “high” risk rating does not carry the recommendation that nighttime outdoor activities be cancelled. Communities considered to be of “critical” risk of mosquito-borne illness, such as Athol, Belchertown, Chicopee, and Orange, have taken such precautions.