EEE Found in New Bedford and East Freetown

EEE has now been found in mosquitoes in both New Bedford and East Freetown.

EEE has been found in a mosquito sample from the east side of Freetown and the North End of New Bedford according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

In response, the New Bedford Board of Health has decided to conduct targeted ground spraying on the early morning of Thursday, August 7 between 2am-the sunrise, weather permitting.

The round will include all parts of New Bedford including Fort Taber, Brooklawn Park, Buttonwood Park, Hazelwood Park, Riverside Park, the Poor Farm area, Clasky Park, Ashley Park, Ben Rose Field, and the Industrial Park area.

Residents in the area are encouraged to close their windows before and during the spraying.

The Bristol County Mosquito Control Project has been surveilling the area to track EEE and WNV carrying mosquitoes. Mosquito traps have been placed to collect additional mosquitoes and to monitor mosquito populations and to monitor the spraying's effectiveness.

Some precautions to take:
-Be aware of peak mosquito hours
-Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites
-Apply insect repellent when you go outdoors
-Drain standing water: Mosquitoes like to lay their eggs in standing water. So limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or getting rid of items that hold water. Check your rain gutters and drains. MAke sure you empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change the water in birdbaths frequently.

Residents may request a ground spray by calling the Bristol County Mosquito Control project at (508) 823-5253, between 8:00am - 2:00pm (June - September), or contacting them by e-mail at RequestBristolMCP@comcast.net.