On Wednesday, the Massachusetts Department of Health [DPH] confirmed the eleventh human case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis [EEE] virus infection in a man in his 70s from Charlton.
DPH also confirmed the fourth EEE death this year in Massachusetts of an Essex County resident.
Additionally, the risk level for EEE virus in the towns of Auburn, Charlton, Dudley, Leicester, Southbridge and Spencer has been raised to high.
State Representative Paul K. Frost [R-Auburn] announced the risk level changes on Facebook on Wednesday.
“We continue to emphasize the need for people to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, MD, MPH. “The unusually warm weather expected this weekend will increase outdoor activity among people and mosquitoes. It is absolutely essential that people take steps to avoid being bitten by a mosquito.”
In addition to the 11 human cases of EEE this season in Massachusetts, there have also been eight confirmed cases of EEE this year in animals – seven horses and a goat.
Massachusetts state officials continue to remind residents throughout the state to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites.
Residents can learn more about EEE and ways to protect themselves on DPH’s website.
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