EEE detected in Fall River, spraying to take place Monday

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) announced today that EEE virus has been detected in mosquitoes collected from Fall River, Massachusetts. The finding of EEE virus in mosquitoes in Fall River emphasizes the need for residents to be taking precautions.

The Bristol County Mosquito Control Project (BCMP) will be spraying the North East section of the City beginning on Monday, August 5 between the hours of approximately 2am – 5am. Mayor Correia said, “Spraying is being done at these earlier hours to coincide with the times that the mosquitoes are the most active, and we want to get a maximum effect of the spraying in this area.” For more information, Bristol County Mosquito Control Project can be reached at 508-823-5253. “As a precaution, all residents who live in the area should keep their windows closed and refrain from going outside between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. In addition, caregivers should ensure that children, elderly relatives and friends as well as pets follow these guidelines. “This notice is being distributed to inform residents so they can help the City and the Bristol County Mosquito Control better protect them,” stated Mayor Correia.

EEE is a rare but serious illness spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. While EEE can infect people of all ages, people under 15 years of age or over 50 years of age are at greatest risk for serious illness. Some of the symptoms are high fever, stiff neck, headache and lack of energy.

By taking a few, common-sense precautions, people can help to protect themselves and their loved ones:

Avoid Mosquito Bites

Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours – The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning. Otherwise, take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing.

Clothing Can Help reduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

Apply Insect Repellent when you go outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

Drain Standing Water – Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or getting rid of items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently.

Install or Repair Screens – Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.