Photo: Rajaram R
In a press release on Friday, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced that two mosquito samples tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Of real concern is one of the mosquitoes is a mammal-biting species, alerting parts of the state to increased risk of EEE.
The following cities and towns in the southeastern part of the state are considered at greater risk of EEE: Acushnet, Berkley, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Easton, Freetown, Lakeville, Mattapoisett, Middleboro, New Bedford, Raynham, Rochester, and Taunton.
According to State Epidemiologist, Dr. Al DeMaria , “It’s not a surprise that we’re now seeing EEE in mammal-biting mosquitoes, but we’re going to have beautiful weather this weekend, which means more people outside – and more chance for them to get bitten by mosquitoes. We just want to encourage everyone to protect themselves, especially people in these areas of higher risk.”
Eastern equine encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral disease. EEE virus (EEEV) occurs in the eastern half of the United States where it causes disease in humans, horses, and some bird species. Because of the high mortality rate, EEE is regarded as one of the most serious mosquito-borne diseases in the United States.
Persons over age 50 and younger than age 15 seem to be at greatest risk for developing severe EEE when infected with the virus.
Many persons infected with EEEV have no apparent illness. In those persons who do develop illness, symptoms range from mild flu-like illness to EEE (inflammation of the brain), coma and death.
The mortality rate from EEE is approximately one-third, making it one of the most deadly mosquito-borne diseases in the United States.
There is no specific treatment for EEE; optimal medical care includes hospitalization and supportive care (for example, expert nursing care, respiratory support, prevention of secondary bacterial infections, and physical therapy, depending on the situation).
Approximately half of those persons who survive EEE will have mild to severe permanent neurologic damage.
The Massachusetts DPH recommends the following to 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.
• Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
• Apply Insect Repellent when outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] or IR3535 according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.
• 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. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently.
• Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.
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