EEE Found in Canton

The state raised the EEE Risk level to high in nearby Norfolk County towns after two mosquitoes tested positive in Canton for the deadly virus.

The Town announced Monday that the Massachusetts Department of Public Health officials have raised the EEE threat level in areas surrounding Canton and have found two positive samples in Canton at established test sites. 

This comes the same day that an elderly Plymouth man became the first victim in the state to be diagnosed with West Nile Virus this year and as just a week after  an 85-year-old woman from Weymouth died of EEE.

Canton has arranged for a supplemental spraying of mosquitoes on Monday night, and a spraying will continue on the normal Wednesday evening schedule, according to an alert message sent from the Town.

Town officials are warning residents to limit nighttime activities and to wear bug repellent and clothes.

The state also raised the risk level to “High” in the nearby towns of Weymouth, Hanover, Hanson, Rockland and  Whitman. 

Amherst, MA is the only other town listed as “High” and the only town in the state where the risk of contracting EEE is rated as "critical" is Belchertown.