Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) Virus Confirmed in Mosquitoes from Truro

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus has been detected in mosquitoes from Truro, Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health reports. The disease has already infected several people in Massachusetts. The young and elderly are both at a higher risk of serious complications if infected, and approximately 30 percent of people infected with EEE die.

There are several steps that can be taken to help protect yourself and your loved ones from EEE.

Mosquitoes are most active in shade and during the early morning and late evening. It is recommended that you remain indoors from dusk until dawn and at any time when you notice that mosquitoes are attracted to you.

Long sleeves and pants are suggested, even in hot weather, to reduce the available surface area of skin for mosquitoes to bite. Additionally, mosquito repellent is highly recommended, and application directions, located on the product label, should be followed carefully.

DEET products should not be used on infants, and should only be used in concentrations less than 30 percent on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three. Permethrin is not intended to be applied directly to the skin, but is meant for clothes and other gear.

There are further steps you can take to lower the number of mosquitoes present on your property.

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so make sure to drain and/or maintain all gutters, unused flower pots, pools, and any area where groundwater collects. Ensure that all window and door screens fit well and are undamaged. Avoid leaving open doors and windows that do not have screens.

People with livestock should take extra precautions. Animals should be brought in at dusk and should have the water in their troughs cycled at a minimum of once per week. Livestock owners should contact their veterinarian for approved repellents to reduce the likelihood of West Nile Virus and EEE, and they are required to report any suspected infections of these diseases.

Read the official statement at the link below and contact us to set up an appointment for us to review your property.

Source 1, Source 2