This Year’s First Human Case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in Massachusetts

On August 16th, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced the first human case of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) in Massachusetts this year. The affected person was exposed in Worcester County. As a result, the risk level in the surrounding communities has been increased to high, and the risk in other nearby communities is now considered moderate.

The risk of EEE in Conway is still considered remote, though it is rated slightly higher in Ashfield, Buckland and Shelburne.

DPH describes EEE as “a rare but serious disease” and reminds residents to avoid mosquito bites by applying insect repellent when outdoors. DPH further recommends avoiding peak mosquito hours from dusk to dawn, and wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors. Mosquito-proof your home by draining standing water and installing or repairing screens.

For further information, see the DPH page on Mosquito-borne Diseases,