Mosquito population on the rise with recent storms

We've had a lot of wet weather this summer, so that we're seeing a lot more mosquitoes. 22 News reporter Chiara Smith joins us live in the studio now with what you can do to protect yourself from getting bit. Good morning, Chiara. Good morning, Kaylee. This muggy and rainy weather brings out more mosquitoes because they are attracted to still water. The weather we have been getting gives mosquitoes a place to lay their eggs. According to the CDC, mosquito larva and pupae live in the water with little or no flow and more mosquitoes comes with the risk of diseases such as malaria, Zika virus and West Nile virus. The U. S. National Park Service says these cases of mosquito borne diseases are most common between April to September. And recently, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed that a sample of mosquitoes in Pittsfield, Worcester, Brookline and West Springfield tested positive for West Nile virus. So as we continue to get rainy weather, health experts say you can protect yourself from mosquitoes by using insect repellents when outdoors, wear long sleeve clothing and avoid outdoor activities from dusk to dawn and fix damaged windows and door screens at your home. Working for you live in the studio, Chiara Smith, 22 News.