In response to the recent detection of eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) in Massachusetts, several towns are implementing precautionary measures to protect their residents from the potentially fatal disease. With the first human case reported since 2020, health officials are urging caution and emphasizing the seriousness of EEE.

The town of Plymouth, located about 40 miles southeast of Boston, announced the closure of public outdoor recreation facilities from dusk until dawn each day. This decision was made after a horse in Plymouth was infected with the disease, highlighting the proximity of the virus to human-populated areas.

In a stark warning, state health officials have classified four towns - Douglas, Oxford, Sutton, and Webster - as being at "critical risk" due to a confirmed human case in Oxford. Residents in these towns are advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito biting times, finishing by 6 p.m. until September 30th, and then by 5 p.m. thereafter until the first hard frost.

To combat the spread of EEE, health authorities recommend the use of mosquito repellents when spending time outdoors and encourage residents to drain standing water around their homes, as stagnant water serves as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Jennifer Callahan, Oxford's town manager, emphasized the gravity of the disease, noting the severe physical and emotional consequences it can inflict. She shared that the infected individual, who is currently hospitalized, had previously claimed to have never been bitten by mosquitoes. However, shortly before exhibiting symptoms, the individual mentioned being bitten. Callahan conveyed the family's urgent plea for people to take the public health advice seriously and protect themselves.

It is important to note that EEE is a rare but serious disease. There are no vaccines or specific treatments for this virus, and it carries a high fatality rate. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 30% of individuals infected with EEE ultimately succumb to the disease. Symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. Survivors often experience long-term disabilities, and complete recovery is rare.

While EEE primarily affects birds, humans and certain mammals can become infected. However, they do not contribute to spreading the disease. The presence of the virus in Massachusetts was confirmed last month and has since been detected in multiple mosquito samples across the state.

Authorities emphasize the rarity of EEE cases in the United States, with most infections concentrated in the eastern and Gulf Coast states. However, it is crucial for residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and adhere to the recommended precautions until the threat diminishes.

As the battle against EEE continues, communities in Massachusetts are united in their efforts to safeguard public health and combat the spread of this deadly mosquito-borne disease.