Mosquito Samples Detect EEE For First Time In MA In 2020

BOSTON — As people are encouraged to socialize more outdoors this summer due to the coronavirus health crisis, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is advising everyone to use bug spray — especially when out at dawn and dusk — after eastern equine encephalitis was detected for the first time in the state this week.

The sample was from mosquitoes collected in Orange — a Franklin County town in North Central Massachusetts — on July 1.

The Department of Health said that no human or animal cases of EEE have been detected this year. But the positive sample caused the state to raise the risk level of EEE in Orange and neighboring Athol to "moderate."

"We have been preparing for EEE activity this year," said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel. "It is early in the year for the first evidence of EEE, therefore, continued mosquito surveillance over the next several weeks will help us understand more about how quickly the virus might emerge this year."

Although rare, EEE is a potentially fatal disease that can affect people of all ages. The state said there were 12 cases of EEE in 2019 with six deaths. Domestic animals are also susceptible to EEE.

"People have been spending time indoors due to COVID-19 and now, as we venture out, we want to remind people about the need to protect themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes," said State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine Brown. "`We are also asking people to remain aware of the level of virus activity in areas where they live, work and play."

To help avoid mosquito bites, the state recommends use of an a insect repellent with DEET or other Environmental Protection Agency-approved ingredients. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks are advised for added protection during these hours.

Residents are also advised to remove standing water that collects from rain in items around yards as they are a breeding ground for insects.

Pets should only go out for a short time at these hours, and horses should be kept in indoor stalls at night.

If an animal is suspected of having EEE or West Nile Virus, owners are required to report that to the Department of Agricultural Resources at 617-626-1795 and the Department of Public Health at 617-983-6800.

Information on mosquito and tick activity in the state can be found here.