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ASHLAND, Mass. – Many fall events have had to change schedules to reduce the risk of contracting a deadly virus transmitted by a mosquito.
Some sporting events were scheduled earlier than usual while others ended earlier to prevent crowds from going out when mosquitoes are most active.
Even if temperatures drop, the risk of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) will persist until the first frost.
In Ashland, where a man was diagnosed with the disease, the dragonfly festival was moved earlier to ensure it ends before dusk.
"Throughout the city, we have asked that all events taking place on a property in the city end at dusk," said Michael Herbert, director of the city of Ashland on Saturday night. "It's now 7:15 am, and it's going to go down 15 minutes because it's darker sooner."
The man diagnosed with the disease in Ashland is one of seven human cases of EEE in the Commonwealth this year.
"What I can say is that this person contracted her in Ashland, but that happened before the aerial spraying that took place in August and we will work with the family to offer all possible help, "Herbert said.
A woman from Fairhaven died of the disease earlier this year and a 5-year-old Sudbury girl is in hospital in critical condition.
Parents say that they take precautions.
"We have a little girl and we want to make sure that she is not exposed to mosquito bites, we know that some areas have been treated, so we're fine to a certain extent, we're covering it," he said. Holliston's parent, Ryan Dit Fernandes.
Many say at this point that they know the routine to stay safe, but even the police take extra precautions.
"We cleared the officers' shirts and long-sleeved shirts early, and we allowed each cruiser to use the insect spray for Deet and asked the officers to pay attention," said the police chief. Ashland, Vincent Alfano.
Ground spraying is expected to continue in Ashland on Monday.
A 5-year-old Sudbury police officer in critical condition suffers from EEE, police say
© 2019 Cox Media Group.
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