massachusetts mosquitoes Deadly Mosquito-Borne Virus Concerning USA Towns
A coastal Massachusetts town is closing its parks, playgrounds and fields from dusk to dawn due to concerns about the mosquito-borne virus Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).
Plymouth implemented initial closures on August 23, advising the public to be cautious and follow tips found on the Massachusetts Department of Health (DPH) website. The news comes after state health officials revealed Aug. 16 that a man in his 80s contracted EEE after being exposed in Worcester County — reportedly the first human case in Massachusetts since 2020.
“Since Mass DPH has now elevated Plymouth’s EEE risk status, it is important to take extra precautions when out and about to avoid unnecessary EEE exposure and state and local health. guidelines,” said Michelle, Plymouth’s Commissioner of Health and Human Services. Bratti in a press release. “The health and safety of our community, residents and visitors is our priority.”
Worcester County, Massachusetts, is also concerned about the mosquito-borne virus. On Saturday, August 24, state officials announced they plan to spray for mosquitoes in parts of Worcester and Plymouth counties due to EEE.
What is Eastern equine encephalitis?
According to the Massachusetts DPH, EEE is rare, but incredibly serious. Since the virus — which is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito — was first identified in Massachusetts in 1938, just over 115 cases have been reported. Additionally, outbreaks of EEE typically occur in Massachusetts every 10-20 years.
A press release sent out by the Town of Plymouth states that, according to the Massachusetts DPH, “EEE mortality rates in humans range from 33% to 70%, with most deaths 2-10 days after the onset of symptoms.” Days later.”
Symptoms may include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes, and drowsiness. Inflammation and swelling of the brain, called encephalitis, is the most dangerous and frequent serious complication of EEE, according to the Massachusetts DPH.
EEE can progress rapidly and some patients may go into a coma within a week.
Humans and some mammals are what are called “dead-end hosts,” meaning they do not spread the virus, although they can get sick, to mosquitoes that bite them.
How is Eastern equine encephalitis tested and treated?
EEE is diagnosed by symptoms and by testing spinal fluid or blood, which can show whether the virus or viral antibodies are present in the body.
There are currently no vaccines or targeted therapies for EEE for humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), medical management of the virus is advised. Patients with EEE require close monitoring by their health care provider, who may prescribe pain control or other treatments to address the specific symptoms of EEE.
Overall, prevention is key. In Plymouth’s Aug. 23 notice, the city recommended some strategies for citizens to avoid mosquito bites, including draining standing water, wearing long sleeves and pants during mosquito-infested times, and staying indoors. Installing screens. They also recommend using a bug repellent, especially one with an EPA-registered ingredient.
Pet owners should reduce potential mosquito breeding sites on their property by eliminating standing water from buckets, tires, and wading pools—especially after heavy rains.
What U.S. towns have raised their EEE risk level to “critical” or “high”?
Four Massachusetts towns have raised the EEE risk level to “critical” — Douglas, Oxford, Sutton, and Webster.
The towns of Carver, Dudley, Middleborough, Northbridge, and Uxbridge also joined Plymouth in raising their EEE risk levels to “high,” according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
There is also growing concern over West Nile virus, which is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes. In July, several local health departments warned citizens that as of August 20, officials had detected mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in states across the U.S., the CDC had recorded 216 cases in 33 states in 2024.
On August 24, it was confirmed that Dr. Anthony Fauci, who served as the President’s Chief Medical Advisor from 2021 to 2022, had been hospitalized after contracting West Nile virus. He is now recovering at home.
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