Mosquito population on the rise with recent storms

Well, we've had so much wet weather this summer and that means we're seeing a lot more mosquitoes. 22 News reporter Kiara Smith joins us live from Springfield now and has what you can do to protect yourself from getting bit. Good morning, Kiara. Kaylee, muggy and rainy weather brings out a lot 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 larvae and pupae live in the water with little or no flow and more mosquitoes come 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. 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-sleeved clothing and avoid outdoor activities from dusk to dawn and fix any damaged windows or screens at your home. Working for you live in Springfield, Kiara Smith, 22 News.