2 EEE, 5 West Nile Virus samples found in Rhode Island, DEM says

Alex Dube,

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management announced Tuesday that they’ve found more samples of EEE and West Nile Virus in mosquitos collected in the state.

According to the DEM, two mosquitos collected on September 5, from a trap in Glocester, tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and that mosquito samples from five communities on the same day, including Barrington, Johnston, Richmond, Tiverton and Westerly, tested positive for West Nile virus.

Following these findings, the Rhode Island Department of Health said the state’s EEE and WNV risk is now considered high.

Humans can only contract these diseases through a bite from a mosquito and the DEM is urging residents to take extra precaution to prevent exposures with the following tips:

  • Put screens on windows and doors
  • When outside for long periods of time, wear long sleeved shirts and pants
  • Use bug spray with between 20 and 30% DEET
  • Remove items around your home that collect water to prevent mosquitos from breeding
  • Monitor children and pets for symptoms of fever or neurological symptoms

For more information on EEE and West Nile Virus, visit the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management website.

Categories: News, Rhode Island

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