Planes are taking to the skies over Plymouth County, Massachusetts, to spray anti-mosquito pesticides in an effort to combat the increasing threat of the deadly mosquito-borne Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus. The state Department of Public Health has announced plans for aerial spraying in Plymouth County, while truck-mounted spraying has already taken place in parts of Worcester County, including Dudley.
Aerial spraying is a crucial tool in the fight against EEE, as it allows crews to reach areas that are difficult to access by roads. Laura McGowan of Clarke Mosquito explained, “What we can do with aerial applications that we can’t do on the ground is to get to those areas where it’s hard to get to by roads.” The planes, each carrying about 200 gallons of spray, took off from Plymouth Airport around dusk to cover the designated areas.
According to the state Department of Public Health, 10 communities in Massachusetts have been classified as being at high or critical risk for EEE. Thirteen communities in Plymouth and Worcester counties were included in the aerial and truck-mounted spraying areas. EEE, which can be contracted through a mosquito bite, can have serious consequences for those infected, including symptoms such as brain swelling.
Michelle Bratti, the Plymouth Commissioner of Health and Human Services, emphasized the severity of EEE, stating that between 30% and 70% of EEE cases are fatal. With such high stakes, officials are taking proactive measures to protect the community. Town parks and fields in Plymouth have been closed from dusk until dawn, and spraying operations are in full swing to mitigate the risk of EEE transmission.
The recent human case of EEE in Worcester County serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by mosquito-borne illnesses. State officials have been vigilant in monitoring the situation, especially after grappling with EEE outbreaks in 2019 and 2020 that resulted in 17 human cases and seven deaths. The first human case of EEE in 2024 was reported earlier this month, underscoring the ongoing threat of the virus.
In response to the heightened risk of EEE, residents in the affected areas are advised to take precautions during spraying operations. While special precautions are deemed unnecessary, individuals with sensitivities to chemicals or respiratory conditions like asthma are encouraged to stay indoors. The pesticide being used, Anvil 10+10, will be applied using an ultra-low volume aerosol to minimize exposure to residents.
Despite the focus on EEE, officials have also issued warnings about West Nile Virus, another mosquito-borne illness that has been detected in Massachusetts. With two confirmed cases of West Nile Virus in 2024, residents are urged to remain vigilant and protect themselves against mosquito bites.
As the state continues its efforts to combat mosquito-borne illnesses, it is crucial for residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard their health. By working together and staying proactive, communities can reduce the risk of EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases. Remember to stay updated on the town-by-town map of EEE risk levels across Massachusetts and follow guidelines to protect yourself and your loved ones from these potentially deadly viruses.
