August 2019 – North Andover News

North Andover Mosquito Control And Spraying Update

August 27, 2019

As you may know a number of communities in the area have been affected by Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in the recent weeks. North Andover is currently under a “Moderate” risk category and some of our surrounding communities are under “High” or “Critical” risk categories by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. North Andover has not had a positive mosquito test, but has been taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of mosquito borne disease transmission and working closely with Mosquito Control.

The Board of Health wants to remind you that we have scheduled mosquito spraying on all town and school parks and fields tonight, Tuesday August 27, 2019 beginning at 8:00pm and concluding before 3:00am.

Out of an abundance of caution, the Board of Health also recommends nighttime sports and activities be concluded by 7:00PM until September 30, 2019. This date and time may be adjusted as we get additional mosquito testing information, additional spraying activities occur throughout the region, and as the time of sunset changes.

The North Andover Public Schools and North Andover Youth Services will also be releasing information about changes to sports, programming or other activities and is working collaboratively with the Health Department.

Please be aware that spraying only reduces the risk of mosquito borne diseases and it does not eliminate all mosquitoes or the risk of disease transmission. Personal protection is essential and the number one way to prevent mosquito borne diseases.

Please read the following tips:

To minimize your chance of being bitten by a mosquito:

Use an insect repellent with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to the instructions on the product label. Note the protection time and reapply as directed. Carefully review the attached mosquito repellent reference sheets for more information.
You should bring appropriate mosquito repellent to any outdoor activity.
Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites: Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks while outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
Drain standing water: Many mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or getting rid of items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools and change water in birdbaths frequently.
Install or repair window and door screens: Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.

EEE Transmission:

EEE is a rare but serious disease that is caused by a virus transmitted from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Fewer than 100 cases of EEE have been found in Massachusetts since it was first detected in 1938, and only 10 cases of neuroinvasive EEE have been reported in Massachusetts between 2009-2018.
This summer, 4 cases of EEE have been reported in the state. We learned that one death may be associated from EEE.
The type of mosquito that carries this virus is most often found near swampy areas.

Symptoms of EEE:

Some people do not experience any symptoms. For those who do, symptoms of EEE typically occur 4-10 days after a bite from an infected mosquito.
Some may have systemic symptoms without neurological involvement. These are similar to the flu and include fever, chills, body aches, and low energy.
The most serious symptoms occur if swelling and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) occurs, at which point more severe neurological symptoms may be present (such as fever, headache, stiff neck, vomiting, seizures, and changes in consciousness).
If you experience any of these symptoms, you must get evaluated by a healthcare provider as soon as possible. There is no treatment for EEE, and complications can be serious.
As always, anyone who is feeling ill should contact their primary care provider or seek medical help.