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AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM YOUR HEALTH DEPARTMENT ABOUT MOSQUITO-BORNE VIRUSES

Mosquito-borne viruses are viruses that are carried and spread by mosquitoes. In this part of the country, public health surveillance is done for two mosquito-borne viruses that can cause encephalitis (swelling of the brain) - West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The period of highest risk of getting either disease can be from late July through the fall.

Mosquitoes get WNV and EEE by biting infected birds. People and animals can get these diseases by being bitten by an infected mosquito. There is no evidence that a person can get these viruses from handling live or dead infected birds or animals. However, gloves should be worn when handling any dead animals and double plastic bags used to discard them in the trash.

Most people bitten by mosquitoes carrying WNV will experience no symptoms or very mild symptoms and will recover on their own. Persons over 50 years of age have the highest risk of severe WNV disease. People who are bitten by mosquitoes carrying EEE tend to experience more severe symptoms. Severe symptoms of both diseases include high fever, muscle weakness, headache, disorientation, neck stiffness, paralysis, coma, tremors, convulsions and sometimes death. There is currently no vaccine or medical cure for these illnesses. In severe cases intensive medical therapy such as intravenous (IV) fluids and nutrition, and ventilator support can be administered in hospitals.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOURSELF?

Avoid Bites! Follow these steps:

  • Avoid outdoor activity between dusk and dawn. If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and socks. Cover baby carriages or playpens that are outdoors with mosquito netting;
  • When outside, use a mosquito repellent. Repellents that contain DEET are the most effective, although DEET should not be used on infants. This year, the CDC also recommends products which contain either the chemical Picaridin, found in Cutter Advanced; or products containing the oil of lemon eucalyptus. Alternatives to DEET that can also be effective for a limited duration (1hour) on the market are: citronella; Avon Skin-So-Soft Plus IR3535; Buzz Away, neem oil, and soybean oil;
  • Avoid areas that tend to have a lot of mosquitoes, such as wetlands or swampy areas;
  • Fix holes in all window and door screens;
  • Remove standing or stagnant water in your yard where mosquitoes are likely to breed. Check your flower pots, wheelbarrows, garbage cans, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, clogged gutters on your house, old tires, etc.;
  • Repair leaking pipes and outdoor faucets;
  • Keep your grass cut short and bushes near your house trimmed so mosquitoes can’t hide;

Call the health department if you see standing water problems that are not on your property. 978-374-2325

 

 
 
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Office of the Mayor
City of Haverhill, Massachusetts
City Hall, Room 100, 4 Summer Street, Haverhill, MA 01830
mayor@cityofhaverhill.com
978-374-2300

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