Aerial spraying for mosquitoes in Bristol and Plymouth counties starts Aug. 8

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The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) today announced that aerial spraying for mosquitoes will take place in specific areas of southeastern Massachusetts begining Thursday, August 8. So far this year, 22 communities in southeastern Massachusetts have been found by DPH to be at high risk for the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus.

EEE is a rare but serious and potentially fatal disease that can affect people of all ages. No human cases of EEE have been detected so far this year.

MDAR will conduct and monitor aerial spraying in specific areas of Bristol and Plymouth counties which are anticipated to begin on Thursday, August 8, and continue over several evenings. The ability to spray is weather dependent and may change. Not every community in Bristol and Plymouth County will be sprayed, please see a comprehensive list below. We are encouraging residents to visit DPH’s website (http://www.mass.gov/guides/aerial-mosquitocontrol-summer-2019) for the latest updates on spraying in their specific communities.

Communities entirely within the spray zone:
– Bristol County: Raynham, Taunton, Dighton, Berkley, Freetown, Acushnet
– Plymouth County: Whitman, East Bridgewater, West Bridgewater, Hanson Bridgewater, Halifax, Plympton, Kingston, Carver, Middleborough, Lakeville, Rochester

Communities partially in the spray zone:
– Bristol County: Easton, Norton, Rehoboth, Swansea, Fall River, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Fairhaven
– Plymouth County: Brockton, Rockland, Hanover, Pembroke, Duxbury, Plymouth, Wareham, Marion, Mattapoisett

Aerial spraying is conducted by airplane in areas of concern during early evening and nighttime hours. There are no health risks expected during or after spraying. While no special precautions are recommended, residents can reduce exposure by staying indoors during spraying.

Owners should cover small ornamental fishponds during the night of spraying. While it is not necessary to bring animals indoors during spraying, keeping pets inside will minimize the risk of exposure.

About Michael Silvia

Served 20 years in the United States Air Force. Owner of New Bedford Guide.

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