Rare Mosquito Virus Detected In Falmouth

FALMOUTH, MA — A mosquito sample in Falmouth tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis, or EEE, according to state health officials. The Department of Public Health did not confirm the location of the positive result, but non-profit Oyster Pond Environmental Trust said it was found in a trap in the Woods Hole Road area.

Health officials said no human or animal EEE cases have been reported this year, though humans are at the highest risk of infection during the month of August. EEE is a rare but serious and potentially fatal virus that can affect people of all ages, according to the DPH.

Cases occur sporadically in Massachusetts, with the most recent outbreaks happening from 2004 to 2006 and 2010 to 2012, according to the DPH. The last human case of EEE in Massachusetts occurred in 2013.

The virus was found in 164 mosquito samples this year and half of them are from species of mosquitoes capable of spreading the virus to people, DPH said. As of Monday, 22 communities in the southeastern part of Massachusetts were designated to have a high risk for EEE.

Below are some tips for avoiding protecting yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses, according to the Department of Public Health.

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 in areas of high risk.

Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your 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 discarding items that hold water.

Install or repair screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.

Protect Your Animals

Horse owners should keep horses in indoor stalls at night to reduce their risk of exposure to mosquitoes. Owners should also speak with their veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for use in animals and vaccinations to prevent WNV and EEE.

If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners are required to report to DAR, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795 and to the Department of Public Health (DPH) by calling 617-983-6800.