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LOWELL – Confirmed presence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEE) throughout the state – including in a sample of South Lowell mosquito – could indicate the beginning of a resurgence of the disease. 39, activity over several years, according to Catherine Brown, state epidemiologist.
The virus transmitted by mosquitoes is often cyclical, Brown explained. Some years of meaningful activity are usually followed by several quiet years. The last wave of EEE virus occurred between 2010 and 2012, she said.
Scientists believe the peak of this summer could mark the "next cycle of intense activity," said Brown. The Lowell Department of Health announced Wednesday that a sample of mosquitoes in South Lowell had tested positive for the virus.
Two human cases of EEE virus – one in Rochester and one in Grafton – have been confirmed in that state. Regarding Lowell, "we have no evidence of substantial risk related to IAS in this area," said Brown.
Although precautions must be taken, there is no reason to alarm, said Kerran Vigroux, director of health and social services at Lowell. According to a press release, 20 mosquito traps throughout the city are tested weekly to identify diseases that are potentially transmitted by insects.
The city – through a partnership with the Central Massachusetts mosquito control project – sprays each week during the summer and fall to control the adult mosquito population. To deal with the city's recent positive sample of EEE, additional sprays will be carried out in South Lowell on August 21 and 28. The first cycle was administered on August 19th.
"We are just climbing up a bit in the southern part of Lowell," said Vigroux, where the positive sample was found.
Residents and pets must stay indoors to avoid contact with chemicals during extra sprays, which will take place around dusk, she noted. The community should not worry about inhaling chemicals, she said.
"The chemicals used in mosquito control have been approved by the EPA for this use," Brown said.
Vigroux advises Lowell residents to apply a mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves and pants whenever possible. The peak activity of mosquitoes occurs from dusk to dawn. In addition, she added, residents should drain any stagnant water around their property – in bird baths or gutters – and repair screen door holes or windows.
The CDC recommends using an insect repellent containing one of the following ingredients: DEET, picaridine (KBR 3023), IR3535, eucalyptus lemon oil, para-menthane-diol (PMD) or 2-undecanone. Do not use insect repellent in infants less than 2 months old and do not use products containing lemon eucalyptus oil in children under 3 years old, indicates the CDC.
Last year, a sample of mosquitoes in Lowell was tested positive for West Nile virus, Vigroux said.
"Basically, you know, these are (Lowell residents) protecting themselves and their families from mosquitoes," she said.
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