Prevent Mosquito Bites

People should be taking precautions to avoid mosquito bites.  The freshwater mosquitoes that are most likely to transmit EEE or WNV are most active from dusk to dawn.  If people plan to be out during those hours, they should either wear long pants and long sleeves or apply an EPA registered repellent.  An EPA registration number can be found on any repellant that has been tested to be safe and effective if used according to the label directions.  There are a number of repellents that have been registered for use against mosquitoes including DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus.  More information can be found at the following link: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/mosquito-repellents

The mosquitoes that transmit WNV lay their eggs in water in man-made containers.  It is important to check your property after a rain event and dump out any standing water in containers (children's toys, tarps, buckets, clogged gutters, etc.).  Mosquitoes need a minimum of 5-7 days to develop from egg to biting adults, so please change water in the bird bath at least once a week.