Massachusetts is currently facing a heightened health alert as the Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus spreads across several communities. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has recently elevated the EEE risk level to high in six towns, urging residents to take preventive measures against mosquito bites.
Recent Findings and Affected Areas
The DPH announced that additional mosquito samples, collected on September 11 in Sutton and Southbridge, tested positive for EEE. This discovery has raised the EEE risk level to high in the communities of Douglas, Dudley, Oxford, Southbridge, Sutton, and Webster. Surrounding areas, including Auburn, Charlton, Grafton, Millbury, and Northbridge, have been designated as moderate risk.
EEE in the Region
The first EEE-positive mosquitoes in Massachusetts for 2023 were identified on September 1 from Douglas and Southbridge. Notably, neighboring states Rhode Island and Connecticut have also reported EEE-positive mosquitoes and a donkey infected with EEE. Fortunately, no human or animal cases of EEE have been detected in Massachusetts this year.
Health Implications and Precautions
EEE is a rare but severe disease that can lead to hospitalization and, in some cases, death. Public Health Commissioner Robert Goldstein, MD, PhD, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “While EEE is a rare disease, it can cause severe disease resulting in hospitalization and death. We want people to take this information seriously and follow advice to prevent mosquito bites.”
Dr. Catherine M. Brown, State Epidemiologist, further highlighted the importance of mosquito bite prevention, especially during peak mosquito activity hours. She advised residents to use mosquito repellents whenever outdoors and to seek shelter indoors if mosquitoes become bothersome.
Preventive Measures
Residents are urged to:
- Apply insect repellent containing an EPA-registered ingredient.
- Be aware of peak mosquito hours, especially from dusk to dawn.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and pants when outdoors.
- Ensure homes have tightly fitting screens on windows and doors.
- Drain standing water around homes to prevent mosquito breeding.
Protection for Animals
Animal owners should also take precautions, such as draining standing water from containers and ensuring that water troughs are flushed out weekly. Horse owners are advised to keep their horses indoors at night and consult with veterinarians about mosquito repellents and vaccinations against WNV and EEE.
