Massachusetts begins mosquito spraying after first human case of EEE diagnosed

PLYMOUTH – Worcester and Plymouth counties are being sprayed with pesticides to prevent Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE). Both counties have areas at high or critical risk for infection.

Where the spraying will begin

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has authorized the start of mosquito control efforts in communities across Massachusetts, with priority given to areas at highest risk of EEE infection – towns in Worcester and Plymouth counties.

The state will spray by air in Plymouth County and by truck in Worcester County. Spraying is expected to begin shortly after dark on Monday. Spraying will be done overnight and will end early in the morning. Spraying is weather dependent.

Spray zone from the air

• Carver
• Halifax
• Kingston
• Middleboro
• Plymouth
• Plympton
• Rochester
• Wareham

Spray zone for ground trucks

• Douglas
• Dudley
• Oxford
• Sutton
• Uxbridge

Avoiding electrical and electronic equipment

The state is taking EEE seriously after an 80-year-old man in Worcester County became infected – the first case this year.

“There are a lot of wooded areas. There are 365 ponds, so it's a breeding ground for insects, especially mosquitoes. There are a lot of ponds, standing water and wooded areas. I find it a little disturbing, but I think if it helps and prevents someone from getting sick, it's probably worth it,” said Anne Marie Morano of Plymouth.

EEE is a rare but potentially fatal disease. Massachusetts had an EEE outbreak in 2019, resulting in deaths in six of the 12 confirmed cases in the state. Currently, 10 communities in Massachusetts are considered to be at high or critical risk for EEE.

Authorities are urging residents to protect themselves from mosquitoes, including by using insect repellent.