Tests on Tiverton mosquitoes reveal EEE

Humans, horses especially vulnerable to potentially deadly disease

Posted 7/17/17

Mosquito samples collected in Tiverton, Pawtucket and Westerly on June 26 have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE), the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in

Register to post events


If you'd like to post an event to our calendar, you can create a free account by clicking here.

Note that free accounts do not have access to our subscriber-only content.

Day pass subscribers

Are you a day pass subscriber who needs to log in? Click here to continue.


Tests on Tiverton mosquitoes reveal EEE

Humans, horses especially vulnerable to potentially deadly disease

Posted

Mosquito samples collected in Tiverton, Pawtucket and Westerly on June 26 have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE), the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) announced .  These are the first findings of EEE in Rhode Island this year. All the positive mosquito pools are species that bite birds and mammals (including humans).

There are no confirmed human cases of EEE in Rhode Island, but because summer and fall are peak seasons for mosquito-borne disease transmission to people, all should be aware of the symptoms of EEE.

Severe cases of EEE (involving encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain) begin with the sudden onset of headache, high fever, chills, and vomiting. If you think you or a family member may have EEE, it is important to consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis.

 In addition to EEE, Rhode Island tests mosquitos for West Nile Virus (WNV).  To date, there have been no confirmed local findings of WNV in a mosquito sample.

The public is reminded to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and avoid bites, where possible. The following precautions are advised:

• Remove anything around your house and yard that collects water; just one cup of water can produce hundreds of mosquitoes.

• Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage, and repair holes in window screens.

• Remove any water from unused swimming pools, wading pools, boats, planters, trash and recycling bins, tires, and anything else that collects water, and cover them.

• Change birdbath water at least two times a week.

• Use EPA-approved bug spray with one of the following active ingredients: DEET (20-30% strength), picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol. Do not use bug spray on infants under age 1.

• Minimize outdoor activity at dawn and at dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

• Put insect netting over strollers and playpens.

• Wear long sleeves and long pants whenever possible, particularly if you are outdoors during dawn and dusk.

Horses are particularly susceptible to WNV and EEE. Horse owners are advised to vaccinate their animals early in the season and to remove standing water.

2024 by East Bay Media Group

Barrington · Bristol · East Providence · Little Compton · Portsmouth · Tiverton · Warren · Westport
Meet our staff
MIKE REGO

Mike Rego has worked at East Bay Newspapers since 2001, helping the company launch The Westport Shorelines. He soon after became a Sports Editor, spending the next 10-plus years in that role before taking over as editor of The East Providence Post in February of 2012. To contact Mike about The Post or to submit information, suggest story ideas or photo opportunities, etc. in East Providence, email mrego@eastbaymediagroup.com.