Mass. officials plan aerial spraying

FALL RIVER, Mass. ( WPRI) - Massachusetts health officials aren’t taking any chances when it comes to protecting residents against mosquito borne illness.

West Nile virus was found in mosquitoes trapped in Providence and Fall River, along with Dartmouth and New Bedford.

Overnight aerial spraying started Wednesday morning in Fall River and lasted until 5 a.m.

Several Massachusetts communities are also under increased risk for EEE. Aerial spraying for the EEE virus will be continuing next week.

So far, 21 other Massachusetts communities experienced aerial spraying in the month of July.

MIn Rhode Island, the threat also remains.

Mosquitoes collected in the Smith Hill area of Providence have also tested positive for the West Nile virus.