Despite Decline in Mosquito Population, More EEE Found Near Sharon

Easton Health Agent Mark Taylor said Wednesday that a total of seven positive pools of EEE mammal-biting mosquitoes have been identified in neighboring Easton just this week.

Two pools tested positive on Monday and five more tested positive on Wednesday.

The discovery coincides with reports that in communities where aerial spraying occurred two weekends ago, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

What does this mean for Sharon? It's another reminder that while mosquito populations are down, EEE is still very prevalent in the area as indicated by the recent findings.

The state recommends towns in "high risk" areas to curtail outdoor evening activities for the remainder of the summer.

In addition to Easton, other towns high at risk include neighboring Canton, Lakeville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Taunton and West Bridgewater, according to the Department of Public Health.

The risk level for mosquito-borne illness in Sharon is still "moderate," however. No mosquitoes have tested postive for EEE in Sharon. And, there have been no recommendations to curtail outdoor evening activities in Sharon.

But, "all residents, regardless of location, are urged to continue taking personal precautions to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses, including Eastern Equine Encephalitis," the DPH states on its website. "These include using insect repellent, covering exposed skin when outside, and avoiding outdoor activities between the hours of dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are at their most active."