EEE detected in mosquito sample for first time this year

BOSTON (WWLP) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has detected Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) for the first time this year in a recent testing of mosquitoes in Massachusetts.

EEE was detected in a mosquito sample taken in the town of Carver in Plymouth County on June 30. There are no human cases of EEE reported so far this year. With this recent finding, the risk of EEE has been increased to moderate in Carver, Kingston, Middleborough, Plymouth, Plympton, and Wareham.

This announcement comes one day after West Nile Virus was detected in two mosquito samples in the city of Quincy in Norfolk County.

“The last EEE outbreak cycle in Massachusetts occurred in 2019-2020 and since then, there have been no human cases of EEE reported in the state,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “Today’s finding alerts us to the presence of EEE in Massachusetts this year. Combined with yesterday’s announcement of West Nile virus in mosquitoes in Massachusetts, we are asking everyone to take the necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites. We recommend that people use mosquito repellent when they are spending time outdoors so they can celebrate the July 4th holiday and enjoy the rest of the summer without being bitten.”

Some mosquitoes can lay hundreds of eggs in as little as 1 tbsp of water—so even the smallest water source can become a big problem. Entomologist at Braman Termite and Pest Elimination, Natasha Wright told 22News, “If you could limit those water sources, get rid of those pots, flip them over, get rid of that tarp you don’t need that’s holding water. Limit how many mosquitoes are on your property.”

While EEE is rare, it is a serious and potentially deadly disease that can affect anyone. It is typically spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. There hasn’t been a reported human case of EEE in Massachusetts since 2020. There were 12 human cases in 2019 with six deaths and five human cases in 2020 with one death.

Tips to avoid mosquito bites:

• Avoid spending extended periods of time outdoors from dusk to dawn – the time when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear long clothing to keep mosquitoes away from your skin
• Use EPA-approved insect repellents.
• Make sure screens in windows and doors fit properly and there are no holes.
• Regularly empty out and clean bird baths, unused flower pots, and other containers that may keep standing water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

• Regularly clean out gutters

Most people infected with this EEE virus will not develop any symptoms. Symptoms of EEE may include a sudden onset of fever, chills, and muscle or joint aches. If you feel like you contracted this virus..make sure to seek medical attention immediately.

Local News

The Caesar salad was invented 100 years ago, but where?

77th annual 4th of July Fest held in Chesterfield

55 people sworn in as new U.S. citizens in Northampton

Feeding Hills resident shares 4th of July memory he’ll never forget

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.