On August 13th the Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced West Nile Virus positive mosquito samples in Plymouth and several other surrounding cities and towns. West Nile Virus is most often transmitted to humans via infected mosquitoes. West Nile Virus can affect people of all ages but people over the age of 50 are at the highest risk for severe infection. This news follows the announcement of positive mosquito samples for Eastern Equine Encephalitis in Halifax. So far 168 local mosquito samples have been positive for West Nile Virus. 80% of people infected with West Nile Virus do not show any symptoms. About one in five people develop a fever with symptoms such as headache, body aches, gastrointestinal issues, joint pains, or a rash, according to the CDC. About one in 150 people who are infected will develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system. It is strongly advised to wear mosquito repellent when outdoors containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus and to avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk and to eliminate standing water in your yard.