In a bid to curb the spread of a potentially deadly mosquito-borne disease, a Massachusetts town has taken the drastic step of closing its parks from dusk to dawn. The town of Plymouth implemented this protocol on Friday after a case of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) was detected in a local horse, signaling a heightened risk for the community.
Precautionary Measures to Protect the Community
Effective immediately, Plymouth’s parks will be off-limits during the evening and night hours, a time when mosquitoes are most active. This means that sports teams and other groups that typically use these spaces will need to adjust their schedules accordingly, as no activities will be allowed in the parks after dusk.
Eastern equine encephalitis is a rare but extremely dangerous disease transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. It is most commonly found in the eastern United States and along the Gulf Coast. While cases are infrequent, the fatality rate for those who contract EEE is alarmingly high—around 30%. Currently, there is no available treatment or vaccine for this disease, making prevention the only effective strategy.
The Threat of Eastern equine encephalitis: Symptoms and Risks
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), survivors of EEE may suffer from long-term neurological issues. Symptoms of the disease can include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes, and drowsiness. The Massachusetts Department of Health notes that the majority of EEE-related deaths occur within two to ten days after symptoms appear.
Given the severity of the threat, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has elevated Plymouth’s EEE risk status to high. Plymouth Commissioner of Health and Human Services, Michelle Bratti, emphasized the importance of taking additional precautions. “As Mass DPH has now elevated Plymouth’s EEE risk status to high, it is important to take extra precautions when outdoors and follow state and local health guidelines to avoid unnecessary risk of exposure to EEE,” Bratti stated. “The health and safety of our community, residents, and visitors remain our priority.”
Mitigation Efforts Underway
To further reduce the risk, the town has scheduled mosquito control efforts, including spraying in parks, neighborhoods, and school grounds. These operations will take place between 2 a.m. and sunrise, targeting the times when mosquitoes are most active. This proactive approach aims to lower the mosquito population and reduce the chances of EEE transmission.
Infected mosquitoes have been identified not only in Plymouth but also in nearby counties, including Plymouth County, Barnstable County, and Essex County, indicating that the risk of EEE may extend beyond a single town.
How Residents Can Protect Themselves
Plymouth officials have provided several recommendations for residents to help minimize their risk of exposure to EEE. These include wearing long-sleeved clothing when outdoors, particularly during peak mosquito activity times, and ensuring that standing water is drained from around homes to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. The installation or repair of window and door screens is also advised to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.
Additionally, the town encourages the use of insect repellents containing certified active ingredients such as DEET, permethrin, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil, all of which are effective in warding off mosquitoes.
Residents are also urged to reschedule any outdoor activities that fall between dusk and dawn to further reduce the risk of exposure.
Conclusion: A Community Effort to Stay Safe
As the threat of EEE looms over Plymouth and surrounding areas, the town’s swift response serves as a reminder of the importance of community-wide efforts to combat mosquito-borne diseases. By adhering to the precautions and guidelines provided by local health officials, residents can play a crucial role in protecting themselves and others from this dangerous virus.
