These Towns In Massachusetts Are At High Risk For Eee

Health officials have announced that the ongoing EEE crisis in Massachusetts has put at least 36 towns at “critical risk.” Here’s what you need to know about the ongoing outbreak in the Bay State.

Massachusetts has been experiencing an unusually high number of EEE (eastern equine encephalitis) cases this season.

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The rare and potentially deadly infection is spread by mosquitos to humans and animals. There is no cure, and early symptoms usually include headache, a stiff neck, and fatigue.

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In Massachusetts, EEE outbreaks usually occur every 20 to 30 years. A single outbreak normally leads to higher-than-average infection rates for about two years.

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So far, there have been seven confirmed human cases and nine confirmed animal cases in Massachusetts this season. There has been one human death. Children and younger teenagers are most at risk of contracting and potentially dying from the disease.

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The State Department of Public Health has stated that 36 communities in Massachusetts are now classed as “critical risk” for EEE. An additional 42 towns are considered “high risk” and 115 are at “moderate risk.”

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The state has commenced aerial spraying of communities most at risk of EEE and more towns will be sprayed in the coming days and weeks. Check the link at the bottom of this article to see which towns are most affected and the current spraying schedule.

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To help protect yourself from EEE, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors and stay away from areas of standing water, where mosquitos tend to breed. You should also try to reschedule evening or dawn activities and wear bug spray whenever possible.

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Click here to view State Department of Public Health information about critically affected towns and the current EEE spraying schedule. You can see a map of the state’s current EEE risk levels here.