Threat of West Nile warrants attention

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To the Editor:

Two weeks ago I wrote a letter to this paper [Take action against mosquitoes and infection, August 30], in an attempt to raise the level of concern about West Nile fever and other mosquito-borne diseases coming to this Island.

In my letter, I urged a program of mosquito control, which included aerial spraying and elimination of areas of stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.

According to information released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, as of August 28, the number of cases of West Nile fever in the U.S. had risen to 1,590, with 66 deaths. Cases have occurred in all of the lower 48 states, and the number is expected to grow.

Is anyone paying attention?

John B. Thomas M.D.

Oak Bluffs