PRIMETIME LIVI NG YOU R B E ST I N TH E P R I M E OF YOU R LI F E
Mosquito season in southern new england eee and WnV Have Been Detected
by D O N
DRAKE
CONNELLY LAW OFFICES, LTD. “As we approach a period of hot and humid weather, it’s important to be aware that spending more time outdoors can increase the risk of mosquito bites. With the reported arrival of the West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in southern New England, it’s crucial to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions. It’s important to note that while most people who contract WNV show no symptoms, young children and the elderly are particularly susceptible to the virus. WNV is known to cause mild to severe illness and, in some cases, can even lead to death. Authorities recommend preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites, particularly those in high-risk groups. EEE is an uncommon yet highly dangerous disease that can be transmitted to humans and horses through infected mosquitoes. This virus is part of a collection of mosquitoborne illnesses that can impact the central nervous system, leading to severe complications and, in some cases, even death. The majority of EEE cases have been documented in states along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. In particular, southeastern Massachusetts, specifically Plymouth and Bristol counties, has been identified as a significant area for EEE outbreaks. While instances of human infections are infrequent, outbreaks in horses are more prevalent during the summer and fall seasons.
About West Nile Virus West Nile virus (WNV) is a disease transmitted to humans primarily through mosquito bites. It affects humans, birds, horses, and other mammals. While WNV is not transmitted through casual contact, such as touching, kissing, or caring for an infected person, it is essential to take preventive measures against mosquito bites to reduce the risk of infection. Symptoms of severe WNV infection may include headache, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, coma, tremors, convulsions, and muscle weakness or paralysis. In the most severe cases, WNV can cause permanent neurological damage and even death. If symptoms do appear, they typically manifest within 3 to 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. About Eastern Equine Encephalitis EEE, or Eastern Equine Encephalitis, typically does not cause symptoms in most infected people. However, those who experience symptoms generally appear four to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Individuals who fall ill with the EEE virus often experience flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, body aches, and joint pain. This illness usually lasts one to two weeks, and most individuals completely recover if the central nervous system is not involved. In rare cases, the virus can infect the brain and spinal cord, leading to a sudden high fever ranging from 103° to 106°F, a stiff neck, and increasingly severe headaches. This can result in inflammation and swelling of the brain, a condition known as encephalitis. The progression of the disease can be rapid.
PrOteCt yOurselF remember to limit your time outdoors between dusk and dawn, as mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite. It’s important to take precautions during these times to avoid being bitten. inspect all your door and window screens to ensure they are securely in place and free from tears or damage. Tight-fitting screens are essential for keeping insects out and ensuring proper ventilation indoors. Regularly check the condition of the screens and promptly repair or replace any damaged ones. This will help maintain a comfortable and bug-free environment inside your home. When spending time outdoors for extended periods or when mosquitoes are particularly active, it’s important to wear protective clothing. This should include shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Choose clothing in light col-
Approximately one-third of those who develop encephalitis due to EEE virus infection do not survive, and among those who do, many are left with mild to severe disabilities. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and Rhode Island Department of Health revealed that Rhode Island recorded its first instance of mosquitoes testing positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). However, West Nile has not been detected yet. The virus was discovered in mosquitoes captured from Tiverton and Coventry on June 10. Unlike West Nile virus (WNV), which is consistently present in Rhode Island each year, the risk of EEE varies and fluctuates annually. It’s important to stay vigilant against mosquito-borne diseases, even though the likelihood of getting sick from a mosquito bite is low, about one in three hundred. People of all ages can get the EEE virus, but those under fifteen and over fifty are at the highest risk of developing severe illness. Additionally, anyone bitten by an infected mosquito can be at risk of WNV, with those over fifty facing the highest risk of serious WNV disease. To protect yourself and your loved ones, it’s important to know how to stay safe from mosquito bites and to stay informed about mosquito activity in your area. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention discovered that older adults, who are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of WNV and EEE, may be less inclined to use mosquito repellent. Therefore, it is important to educate this demographic about the significance of using mosquito repellent to reduce the risk of WNV and EEE-related illnesses.
ors of tightly woven materials that effectively keep mosquitoes away from your skin. regularly empty out any containers such as buckets, flowerpots, toys, and other items that can collect and hold water, as these can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. regularly inspect your roof gutters to ensure they are free of leaves, dirt, and debris. It is important that the gutters are not clogged and allow water to drain properly. use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure, such as a tent or a cabin without window screens. It is also important to protect small babies outdoors where mosquitoes are active. use an ePA-registered mosquito repellent and follow the directions carefully whenever you are outdoors, especially in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. This will help protect you from mosquito bites and reduce the risk of mosquitoborne illnesses.