This year, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) cases have steadily risen as more and more patients become infected with the virus. However, there are a few updates that can help protect families and Mass. residents from coming into contact with the virus. 

EEE is an especially rare disease but has spiked across major counties in the state. While it is preventable, most patients that get EEE can’t be cured and are likely to experience life-threatening symptoms including brain damage, seizures, and even comas. The EEE virus spreads through transmission by mosquitoes that bite individuals. 

Make sure that you are staying up to date with the latest updates, prevention skills, and health info to stay safe this fall from EEE! Additionally, click here to follow EEE updates from Mass.gov to learn more! 

Three major counties are getting special repellent schedules to fight off mosquitoes

According to public health officials, mass government health officials are preparing to provide excess repellent to rural areas of Worcester, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties. The spray will help to prevent the spread of EEE to these communities and anyone passing through as well. 

These specific counties have an even greater risk of EEE since it includes many wooded and bog-like environments across the state. Make sure you follow recent health updates to ensure that you avoid these areas during the peak of EEE season. 

EEE is fairly easy to prevent with just a few steps

Preventing EEE can be a straight-forward process for most patients if they follow a few key steps. Even though EEE is a rare disease, active prevention is the best way to ensure that you and your family don’t get infected. A few key prevention steps include: 

• Wear long sleeves and protective pants whenever you’re outside near wooded areas, stillwater ponds, and similar environments. This can help to protect you against mosquito bites. 
• Additionally, make sure that you use approved repellent in order to significantly lower the chance of a possible mosquito bite. Repellent is the most effective prevention method for individuals near areas of high mosquito activity.
• Avoid prolonged activities outside during times where EEE risks are at a higher than normal rate. Some schools and towns in Massachusetts have changed the times of outdoor activities to avoid EEE risk 

While EEE can be frightening, it is important to understand that the disease is preventable as long as you follow Mass.gov updates. If you like as well, speak with a nearby urgent care provider to see what else you can do to stay safe this fall!