Eastern Equine Encephalitis on the Rise in Massachusetts
In response to the escalating threat of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Massachusetts, BSU has taken proactive measures by conducting necessary spraying to ensure the safety of our campus. BSU worked with Plymouth County Mosquito Control (PCMC) to spray the campus on September 3rd.
The transmission of EEE involves mosquitoes acting as vectors, with birds serving as the primary carriers of the virus. Mosquitoes become infected after biting birds, and from there the virus is eventually transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Taking as many precautions as possible is important as EEE can be life-threatening. Individuals who are infected are known to have suffered from fever, headaches, fatigue, muscle pain, tremors, and confusion. In more severe cases, coma and swelling of the brain have been the leading causes of death.
So why is it so important that BSU be sprayed now? Mass.gov reports that “the last outbreak of EEE occurred in 2019-2020 and resulted in 17 human cases with seven deaths.” Recently, EEE has started rising in MA, with 91 EEE-positive mosquito samples in the state, and four human cases.
This increase has raised some concerns. In an effort to avoid the EEE virus, spraying was determined a necessary precaution to protect the many students and faculty at the university. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued advisories urging individuals to take precautions.
Insect repellent and wearing protective clothing is highly encouraged. It is also important for community members to go inside at dusk to prevent exposure to mosquitoes and eliminate any standing water around their homes where mosquitoes can breed. Taking these necessary steps will help reduce the risk of EEE transmission and ensure the safety of everyone in the area.
By staying informed, following guidelines provided by health authorities, and taking necessary precautions such as eliminating standing water and using insect repellent, we can further minimize the risk of EEE transmission. It’s important for everyone to remain vigilant, especially during peak mosquito activity times, and work together to protect ourselves and our community from this concerning public health threat.
