Spring sunshine is the best medicine for long winter nights. And warmer weather means spending more time outdoors with friends and family. Unfortunately, it also marks the beginning of the dreaded mosquito season.
With mosquito season, comes those incredibly annoying bites and ear buzzes. But here in Northeastern & Central Massachusetts there is also a risk of a rare but potentially deadly virus known as EEE.
EEE or Triple E Virus
EEE or Triple E Virus (Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus) is mosquito-borne disease. EEE is believed to be spread from infected birds to the mosquitoes that feed on them. A bite from an infected mosquito can then spread the virus to both humans and some other mammals like horses and llamas, though mammals themselves do not spread the virus. In Massachusetts, the EEE virus is most often found in areas with freshwater or in hardwood swamps.
According to Mass.gov, outbreaks will usually occur in Massachusetts every 10-20 years, each outbreak lasting between two and three years. The CDC reported nine cases of EEE virus in the US last year – four of those reported cases occurred in the state of Massachusetts.
Though there is a vaccine for horses, there is currently no cure or preventative treatment for EEE in humans. Symptoms seem to be most severe in children and the elderly. EEE symptoms include fever, chills and in severe cases brain swelling, coma, and long-term brain damage.
Though EEE is considered a rare disease, state officials are urging the public to take preventative measures and precautions when spending time outdoors this season.
How to Protect Your Home From EEE
Summer is the height of mosquito season, and the best thing you can do now is to start preparing. Professional mosquito control companies like Shawsheen Valley Mosquito and Tick Control can perform a treatment spray that is effective and safe for both children and pets. Our Mosquito spraying treatments take only 30 minutes to dry and then your yard is ready for outdoor fun!
Mosquito spraying will not only protect you and your family from mosquito-borne diseases, but it will also ensure that your property is mosquito and tick free for the entire summer.
Visit svmtcontrol.com today for a free quote or call us at (978) 420-2887.