Reduce Your Risk of Eastern Equine Encephalitis

The Schacht Center for Health and Wellness urges all members of our community to take precautions against mosquito bites to reduce risks of contracting eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), a rare but serious illness.

Wear long sleeves, pants, socks and shoes; apply bug spray; and avoid leisurely outdoor activity during early morning (dawn) and evening (dusk).

• Learn more about EEE and how to protect yourself
• Learn more about EEE outbreaks in Massachusetts

About Eastern Equine Encephalitis

What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis?

Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but serious viral illness spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms develop 3–10 days after the bite and may include a high fever (over 103F or 39c), headache, stiff neck, and fatigue. Symptoms may progress rapidly and cause encephalitis, a swelling of the brain. Complications include coma and death.

Protect Yourself

Prevention of mosquito bites is the best way to stay safe and healthy.

• Avoid leisure outdoor activity at dusk and dawn (the time in the morning and evening around sunset and sunrise) when mosquitoes are most active.
• Cover up: wear long pants, long sleeves and socks. 
• Use bug spray with DEET, permethrin, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to the label. 
• DO NOT apply permethrin to skin. 
• DO NOT use any product on small children on infants without consulting a doctor. 
• Report or cover any holes in screens on windows and doors
• Do not leave windows and doors open
• Drain any standing water that may accumulate in birdbaths and pots.

Learn more about bug sprays: MDPH Mosquito Repellents fact sheet

Worried? Call us. We can help.

• 413-585-2800 daytime weekdays
• 413-585-1260 after 5 p.m. and weekends