updated 11-Sept-09
Mosquitoes with West Nile Virus have been confirmed
in CMMCP surveillance traps in 3 towns to date.
Click the links below for a narrative and maps of
the spray areas. Please call (508) 393-3055 for additional information.
·
WESTBORO
·
WESTFORD
·
SHREWSBURY
FROM THE MDPH WEBSITE:
Positive mosquito results from 2009 can
be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page at westnile.ashtonweb.com.
People have an important role to play
in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by
mosquitoes.
Avoid
Mosquito Bites
·
Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak
biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities
that occur during evening or early morning.
·
Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and
socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
·
Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N,
N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR
3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] or IR3535
according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not
be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in
concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus
should not be used on children under three years of age.
Mosquito-Proof
Your Home
·
Drain Standing Water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the
number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining
or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any
unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently.
·
Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having
tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.
More information is available on the
DPH website: www.mass.gov/dph/wnv. Information
about West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis is also available by
calling the DPH recorded information line at 1-866-MASS-WNV (1-866-627-7968),
or the Epidemiology Program at 617-983-6800.
|