East Middlesex Mosquito Control has confirmed the presence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in two mosquito samples collected on 9/5 and 9/10 in the Town of Concord. There are no reported human cases of EEE and Concord remains at a moderate risk level as designated by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The positive test results are a reminder of the potential risk posed by mosquito-borne diseases in our area and underscores the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent mosquito bites. 

In addition to recommending measures to mitigate personal risk to mosquito exposure, the Town of Concord is undertaking a pesticide spraying campaign.   This is at the recommendation of the Health Director, with input from the Town’s representative on the East Middlesex Mosquito Control District, and following the June 2022 directive of the Board of Health to authorize spraying under certain conditions, the Town, through the East Middlesex Mosquito Control District, will spray the following areas this evening, Sept 12 after dusk:

• Emerson Field, 90 Stow Street; and

• Rideout Playground, 61 Laws Brook Road.

The spray will only be applied to area of large vegetation (tree, brush, bushes).  Areas where people congregate will not be sprayed, for example, fields where activities take place, playgrounds and picnic tables.  See the Health Departments webpage for more information.  https://concordma.gov/3587/Mosquito-Information  

Eastern Equine Encephalitis is a rare but serious disease caused by a virus transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. While EEE can infect people of all ages, people under 15 years of age or over 50 years of age are at greatest risk for serious illness.  

Concord Public Health continues to work closely with the Massachusetts Department of Health and other agencies, and recommends the community continue to be vigilant and take the following precautions to mitigate the risk of exposure to mosquito bites:

 Avoid Mosquito Bites

• Apply Insect Repellent when you go outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.  Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin. 
• Clothing Can Help reduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
• Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours - The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. When risk is increased, consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning. If you are outdoors at any time and notice mosquitoes around you, take steps to avoid being bitten by moving indoors, covering up and/or wearing repellant.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

• Drain Standing Water – Many mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or getting rid of items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools and change water in birdbaths frequently.  
• Install or Repair Screens - Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having tightly fitting screens on all your windows and doors.

 While the risk of contracting EEE is still considered low, the Town of Concord will continue to monitor and keep the public informed of any developments. Residents are strongly encouraged take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito-borne.

Questions?  Contact Melanie Dineen, Public Health Director, mdineen@concordma.gov