The Central Mass Mosquito Control Project announced today that a mosquito infected with the West Nile virus has been found in Northborough. Earlier this month mosquitoes were detected in Shrewsbury with West Nile and in Westborough with the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus.
With infected mosquitoes buzzing about in nearby towns, the Southborough Recreation Department is advising residents to take extra precautions when they head to Summer Nights later this month.
Recreation Director Doreen Ferguson said her department is taking steps to mitigate the risk. This year, as in past years, they have asked CMMCP to spray the Neary and Trottier school grounds just prior to the event.
“While (spraying) is extremely helpful in preventing mosquito-borne viruses, it is not foolproof, so be sure to take extra precautions,” Ferguson said.
Some precautions recommended by the Southborough Emergency Management Agency include:
- Applying repellents that contain DEET on those for whom it is safe. Read product labels carefully for restrictions
- Use mosquito nets on baby carriages
- Wear long sleeves and pants (light colors are better than dark colors or black)
According to the Centers for Disease Control, children under the age of six, adults over the age of 50, and those with a weakened immunity system, are at the highest risk for West Nile and EEE infections.
Summer Nights takes place on Saturday, August 25. For more information on the event, see this post.
EEE has been found in mammal-biting mosquitoes in Westboro. Westboro has been raised to “High” risk, and surrounding towns to “Moderate”. Town-wide spraying in Westboro will occur Aug 16 & 17, weather permitting. Please use repellents!! Click here for the current mosquito risk map in Mass: http://tiny.cc/0xo5iw