A Special Message From the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

August 13, 2024

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) are announcing that the most recent mosquito samples tested by the Rhode Island State Health Laboratories (RISHL) have confirmed 13 positive findings of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus and two positive findings of West Nile Virus (WNV). 

The mosquito samples testing positive for EEE were collected in South Kingstown. The mosquito samples testing positive for WNV were collected in Westerly. These results are from 106 samples collected from 23 traps set statewide by DEM on July 29. All other samples tested negative for EEE virus, WNV, or Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV).

This season, Rhode Island previously announced two EEE virus findings and one WNV finding, the State of Connecticut has announced 20 EEE virus findings and 105 WNV findings, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has announced 124 WNV findings, 34 EEE findings, one animal case of EEE virus, and one human case of WNV.

Although mosquito-borne diseases become more prevalent in Southern New England as the summer progresses, the high amount of EEE virus activity in South Kingstown indicates a significant risk in Washington County and an elevated risk level in Rhode Island. DEM and RIDOH are urging Rhode Islanders to continue protecting themselves and their loved ones from mosquito bites.

Read more about the recent sample testing and ways to protect yourself from mosquito bites at https://dem.ri.gov/press-releases/ri-mosquito-report-state-announces-additional-findings-eee-and-west-nile-virus-urges.