Marianne LaBarge City Councilor | Ward 6 | Northampton, MA

WARD 6

         CITY COUNCILOR

MARIANNE LABARGE
Text Box: For Immediate Release: September 6, 2024 City of Northampton Alerts Residents to Mosquito-Borne Disease Threat NORTHAMPTON – The Northampton Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is closely monitoring the risk of mosquito-borne diseases locally, specifically Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV), as mosquito activity remains high across the state. Currently, there have been no confirmed mosquito samples, or animal or human cases of these diseases in Northampton and the risk for disease remains moderate to low for both viruses here in Hampshire County. However, given recent activity in neighboring counties and across the state, it is critical for residents to take preventive measures. As a member of the Pioneer Valley Mosquito Control District (PVMCD), Northampton benefits from a comprehensive Mosquito Control Program to help protect residents from mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The program services include mosquito trapping, species identification, disease testing, and source reduction measures, such as larviciding to control mosquito populations before they reach adulthood. While aerial spraying is being used in other parts of Massachusetts and activities after dusk are being curtailed, Northampton has not reached the threshold to require such actions. As mosquito season peaks, WNV and EEE pose serious health risks to the community. While most people infected with WNV may not experience symptoms, some develop severe illnesses, including inflammation of the brain. EEE, though a rare but serious disease, often starts with a sudden onset of headache, high fever, chills, and vomiting. Inflammation and swelling of the brain, called encephalitis, is the most dangerous and frequent serious complication that can lead to severe neurological conditions or even death. As mosquito season continues through September and October, Northampton residents should remain vigilant. The city will provide ongoing updates based on local mosquito surveillance data and risk assessments. Mosquito activity typically declines after the first hard frost. What You Can Do to Reduce Your Risk: Know Your Risk: Stay updated by checking the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Arbovirus Risk Maps regularly. 2. Personal Protection is One of the Most Important Steps - Protect Yourself from Bites by Using a Multi-layered Approach: Use EPA-approved mosquito repellents, especially during peak mosquito activity between dusk and dawn. Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks when outdoors during these hours. Use mosquito netting on baby carriages and playpens. 3. Mosquito-Proof Your Home: Repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out. 4. Prevent Artificial Habitat Buckets, plant pots, tire swings, kiddie pools, and anything that holds water should be emptied to prevent mosquito habitat. 5. Protect Your Animals Pet owners can minimize mosquito breeding sites on their property by removing standing water from containers like buckets, water troughs, tires, and wading pools. Horse owners should keep their horses in indoor stalls at night. Owners should consult their veterinarians about repellents approved for use on animals and discuss vaccinations to prevent illness. If an animal is suspected of having EEE or WNV, owners are required to report to the Department of Agriculture Resources, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795, and to the Department of Public Health by calling 617-983-6800.   Local Mosquito Control Efforts: Stay Informed: For more information on preventing mosquito-borne diseases and to view interactive prevention videos, visit the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website at Mass DPH Mosquito Borne Disease Prevention or contact Merridith O’Leary at moleary@northamptonma.gov or 413-587-1215.