Epi Week #29 - 2015 General Statements

West Nile Virus activity has ramped up since last week, with 9 new arbovirus-positive mosquito pools. Of the nine, all were from the Culex pipiens/restuans complex, and six were from the town of Brookline. DPH is cautioning everyone that EEEv is likely present in mosquitoes at this time as well, though it remains undetected. Now is a good time to remind the public about good preventative personal protection measures.

Weather

It was another nearly rain-free week for the state, with only northern Hampden County showing over one inch, and several isolated spots showing about .5 inches of precipitation. Cape Cod, the Islands, and southern portions of Bristol and Plymouth counties remain at “Abnormally Dry” drought status.

A subtropical/Bermuda High ridge will continue to pump up warm/hot humid air up the eastern seaboard for the next week or so, with periodic breaks in humidity, so expect the high temperatures/heat wave conditions to stick around at least through the beginning of August. Rainfall will be fickle and unpredictable (some towns will receive drenching downpours, while others will remain dry).