Massachusetts Towns Take Action as “Triple E” Mosquito Virus Threatens Public Health

In response to the rising threat of a rare but potentially deadly mosquito-borne virus, nearly a dozen towns in Massachusetts have taken the precautionary step of closing public parks at night and restricting outdoor activities. The virus, known as eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) or “Triple E,” has been detected in mosquitoes in the area, leading to heightened concern among public health officials.

Ten communities in the state are now classified as being at high or critical risk for EEE, a virus that spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito. With no available vaccines or specific treatments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have labeled the disease as “very serious.”

The alert was triggered when mosquitoes in the region tested positive for EEE, and the state reported its first human case of the virus since 2020. Additionally, the virus was confirmed in a horse in Plymouth, raising the town’s risk level to high. A man in his 80s was the first person diagnosed with the virus on August 16.

EEE is known for its severe impact, with a mortality rate ranging between 33% and 70% among those infected. Most fatalities occur within two to ten days after symptoms begin. The disease presents with symptoms such as fever, headache, seizures, vomiting, and diarrhea.

“EEE is a rare but serious disease and a public health concern,” said Massachusetts Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein. He urged residents, particularly in high-risk areas, to take precautions against mosquito bites, especially during evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.

State health officials recommend avoiding outdoor activities in the evening until the end of September to minimize the risk of infection. This latest outbreak follows a previous one in Massachusetts, which saw 17 human cases and seven deaths between 2019 and 2020.

In addition to EEE, several municipalities in Massachusetts are also on high alert for mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus, another mosquito-borne illness. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and follow public health guidelines to protect themselves and their communities.