twiw-horizontal-trans-150h
Is there a story you think we should be covering? Have a tip on something we should look at?
Contact Us

Eighth Horse in Mass. with EEE Virus Found in Douglas

By Patrick Sargent | September 4, 2019
Last Updated: February 2, 2021

DOUGLAS – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health [DPH] announced on Tuesday that a horse in Douglas has been confirmed as being infected with Eastern Equine Encephalitis [EEE] virus infection

The new case brings the total number of horse cases of EEE to eight in Massachusetts this year. As a result of this finding, the risk level in Douglas has been raised to critical and the risk level in Oxford and Webster has been raised to high.

“Cases of EEE in mammals, including horses, serve as a reminder that there is a continuing risk to humans,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, MD, MPH. “Even as we head into September, it remains critically important that people take steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites.”

In total, there are 29 communities now at critical risk, 39 at high risk, and 123 at moderate risk for the EEE virus in Massachusetts. A map of the state’s current EEE risk levels can be found here.

There have been four confirmed human cases of EEE this year — including a male in Grafton. 

The DPH is imploring all Massachusetts residents to use mosquito repellent and those in high and critical risk communities should consider staying indoors during the dusk to dawn hours to reduce exposure to mosquitoes.

 

September 4, 2019 Douglas
Map of EEE Risk Levels/Mass DPH

Lead photo credit: photo on Visualhunt.com


Follow us on The016.com, the social network for Worcester and you!

Recent Headlines

Follow us on The016.com, the social network for Worcester and you!