With cases of mosquito-bourne illnesses on the rise in our Southeastern Massachusetts communities we would like to take a moment to remind our reader to take extra precautions while enjoying these last days of summer into the fall. Along with limiting time outside, following these tips will help minimize your family’s risk:
- If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Take special care to cover up the arms and legs of children playing outdoors.
- Fix any holes in your screens, and make sure they are tightly attached to all your doors and windows.
- Dispose of trash and regularly empty any metal cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, tires and other containers that can collect water. Mosquitoes can begin to multiply in any standing water that lasts for more than four days.
- Clean clogged roof gutters, and remove leaves and debris that may prevent drainage of rainwater.
- Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
- Do not allow water to stagnate in birdbaths, and aerate ornamental ponds or stock them with fish.
- Keep swimming pools clean and properly chlorinated.
- Use landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property.
The Department of Public Health has said the EEE virus has been found in 333 mosquito samples this year, many of them from species of mosquito capable of spreading the virus to people.
You should consult a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Swelling larger than two inches in diameter around the bite site
- Swelling of the face, tongue or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or heart palpitations
- Joint pain
- Muscle stiffness or spasms
- Rash or hives
- Fever, nausea or vomiting
- Severe headache
Sources:
WCVB.com – https://www.wcvb.com/article/4th-human-eee-case-confirmed-in-massachusetts-fairhaven-woman-reported-to-have-virus-dies/28810052
SouthcoastToday.com – https://www.southcoasttoday.com/article/20070430/News/704300342
