Massachusetts Announces Aerial and Truck-Mounted Spraying for Mosquitoes in EEE Risk Areas | Newsletter

Massachusetts Plans Aerial and Truck-Mounted Spraying for Mosquitoes in High-Risk Areas

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) have announced their plans to conduct aerial spraying for mosquitoes in parts of Plymouth County and truck-mounted spraying in certain areas of Worcester County. This decision comes as 10 communities in Massachusetts have been classified as high or critical risk for the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus by the DPH.

To combat the spread of the virus, the State Reclamation and Mosquito Control Board (SRMCB), with the assistance of MDAR, will oversee the aerial spraying in Carver, Halifax, Kingston, Middleborough, Plymouth, Plympton, Rochester, and Wareham. Additionally, truck-mounted ground spraying will take place in Douglas, Dudley, Oxford, Sutton, and Uxbridge.

While the exact timing of the spraying will be provided soon, it is expected to occur during the week of August 26, primarily at night. The spraying will begin shortly after dusk and end in the early morning. However, it is important to note that the schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions.

The DPH’s website will provide residents with further information as it becomes available. It is crucial for individuals in the affected areas to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but severe disease that can affect people of all ages. On August 16, the DPH reported the first human case of EEE virus infection this year—a male in his 80s who was exposed to EEE in Worcester County. During the previous outbreak in Massachusetts between 2019 and 2020, there were 17 human cases and seven deaths.

To address concerns about the pesticide used for spraying, it is important to note that Anvil 10+10 is the chosen product. This EPA-registered pesticide has been extensively tested and used in the United States for over 20 years for mosquito control. It has proven to be highly effective in killing mosquitoes worldwide.

By conducting aerial and truck-mounted spraying in high-risk areas, the Massachusetts DPH and MDAR aim to reduce the mosquito population and minimize the risk of EEE transmission. It is crucial for residents to stay updated on the spray schedule and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites, such as wearing protective clothing and using insect repellents.