Photo courtesy of Pratheep P S, www.pratheep.comThe Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) declared on August 7th, 2019, that the eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) was detected in mosquitoes collected from the towns of Westborough and Southborough, very close to Shrewsbury.
Approximately 30% of people with EEEV die and several survivors have ongoing neurologic problems, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
The EEEV is sustained in a cycle between Culiseta melanura mosquitoes and avian hosts in freshwater hardwood swamps. Transmission to humans requires mosquito species capable of creating a “bridge” between infected birds and uninfected mammals such as some Aedes, Coquillettidia, and Culex species, according to the CDC.
No human cases of EEEV have been detected -so far- in Massachusetts. The last human incident occurred in 2013, says the MDPH.
How to prevent infection?
The CDC advises that the most effective way to prevent infection from EEEV is to avoid mosquito bites. Mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, treat clothing and gear, and take steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors. More information could be found at the CDC official website here.
For the most updated information on EEE risk and aerial spraying in Massachusetts, contact the DPH Division of Epidemiology at (617) 983-6800 or the Shrewsbury Health Department at 100 Maple Avenue, 1st Floor, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, telephone 508-841-8347.
Subscribe to The Shrewsbury Post Updates
