ARBOVIRUS ACTIVITY IN MASSACHUSETTS: 2008 SEASON SUMMARY AND
REVIEW OF CLIMATE AND VECTORS IN RELATION TO WNV DISEASE
M. Cynthia Stinson, D.Sc.
Massachusetts Department of Public Health
305 South Street
Boston, MA 02130
ABSTRACT
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH)
Arbovirus Surveillance Program conducts surveillance for mosquito-borne
viruses; identifies areas at increased risk for Eastern Equine Encephalitis
(EEE) or West Nile Virus (WNV) human disease; and communicates this risk to
local agencies and the public. Arboviral activity in 2008 began with much
anticipation as precipitation events produced large vector populations in areas
of concern. Subsequent increases in WNV mosquito and avian activity were noted throughout
the season. Yet, the 2008 season concluded with no confirmed human WNV or EEE
cases. This presentation will provide a summary of 2008 Arbovirus activity; and
a review of climate and vector data from 2000 through 2008 in relation to WNV
disease.