Mosquito-borne disease update

Maine CDC has confirmed the presence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in more than 20 mosquito pools and has reported the death of a pheasant and two horses from EEE. In addition, one mosquito pool has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), the first WNV positive this year. More information is available in the press release at http://go.usa.gov/Dn9R

Maine CDC will update information on mosquito-borne disease surveillance in the state every Monday through September at http://go.usa.gov/jt6R

EEE and WNV are viruses transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Maine CDC recommends the following preventative measures to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses:

• Use an Environmental Protection Agency-approved repellent when outdoors, especially around dawn and dusk. Always follow the instructions on the product’s label;
• Wear protective clothing when outdoors, including long-sleeved shirts, pants and socks;
• Keep window and door screens down to keep mosquitoes out of the home;
• Limit time outdoors at dawn and dusk when many species of mosquitoes are most active;
• Remove containers holding water in and around the home, as water can attract mosquitoes.

Information on pesticides and repellents is available at the Maine Board of Pesticides Control website at: http://go.usa.gov/jt6F