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EEE Alert Level Raised To High In Easton, Raynham

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Oct 1, 2009 3:27 pm US/Eastern

EEE Alert Level Raised To High In Easton, Raynham

BOSTON (WBZ) ―

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The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has raised the mosquito alert level from moderate to high in Raynham and Easton on Thursday.

The decision was made after three mosquito samples tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Easton.

EEE positive mosquito samples have also been found this week in Amesbury, Haverhill, Methuen, Fairhaven, Rochester, Leominster and Webster.

Spring rains helped breed the types of mosquitoes that spread EEE, said DPH State Epidemiologist Dr. Al DeMaria.

There was one human case of EEE during 2008; however there were 13 cases leading to six deaths from 2004 through 2006.

TIPS TO KEEP YOURSELF SAFE

Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning.
Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
Apply Insect Repellent when outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.
Mosquito-Proof Your Home: Drain Standing Water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or discarding 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 Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.