Mosquito-borne Illnesses in Massachusetts: Fall 2024

Department(s):

Health Services

Due to heightened concerns about mosquito-borne illnesses in the region, WPI is carefully monitoring risk levels of West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). We are in close contact with the Worcester and Massachusetts Departments of Public Health as well as other Worcester area colleges and universities to align our risk mitigation strategies if mosquito-borne risk levels continue to increase.  

The current WNV risk level in Worcester is moderate. The risk level for EEE in Worcester remains low.  For the most up-to-date local mosquito-borne risk level information please visit Massachusetts arbovirus update.  

We strongly encourage you to be aware of the risks and to take the following measures to protect against mosquitoes.  

  • Limit exposure outdoors from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, and consider moving outdoor events indoors whenever possible. 
  • Apply insect repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient, such as DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) when outdoors.  
  • Wear long sleeves, socks, and pants to protect your skin during evening hours when outside. 
  • Keep windows and doors closed or screened to keep mosquitos out. 
  • Eliminate standing water outdoors, where mosquitos can breed. 

WPI is prepared to take additional measures to protect the community if needed. 

For more information, please visit the following links:  

If you have additional health and safety concerns, please contact Environmental Health & Safety at ehs@wpi.edu or Student Health Services at shs@wpi.edu.