Third case of EEE appears in Massachusetts

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BOSTON (WLNE) – The third case of EEE has been confirmed in Massachusetts.

On Friday the Massachusetts Department of Health announced a man over the age of 60 has tested positive for the virus. They say he was exposed to it in northern Franklin County.

This comes less than a week after health officials announced a second man from Grafton tested positive. The first case was reported earlier this month when a 60-year-old man from Plymouth was infected.

This is the first time the virus has appeared in humans in Massachusetts since 2013.

“We are seeing the most intense level of EEE activity that we have in several years. The largest area is in Bristol and Plymouth Counties with a second focus of activity in parts of Worcester and Middlesex Counties,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel.

As a result of the recent uptick in cases the risk level of contracting the virus has been increased several communities throughout the state.

In total 23 Massachusetts communities are currently at critical risk, 22 at high risk, and 52 are at a moderate risk for the EEE virus. Several communities are now ramping up mosquito spraying to help combat the issue.

For a list of ways to help prevent mosquito bites visit the Department of Health’s website.

WLNE-TV / ABC6 2019