West Nile found in mosquitoes in North Kingstown

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NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island environmental officials are warning that West Nile virus has been found in mosquitoes in North Kingstown for the first time this season.

The state Department of Environmental Management said on Wednesday that a sample of mosquitoes collected Aug. 12 in the central area of North Kingstown tested positive for the virus.

No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Rhode Island.

West Nile was found in two mosquito samples last year, both from South Kingstown.

West Nile can cause flu-like symptoms. It is usually not fatal, but can cause serious illness in older people or those with some chronic health conditions.

The DEM advises people to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses, including Eastern equine encephalitis, which has not been found in the region this year.