The Massachusetts Health Department has announced plans to do aerial spraying in parts of Plymouth County most harshly hit by reports of Triple E. The truck mounted spraying will be officially announced this week according to a statement.
There are eight communities in the aerial spray zone are Carver, Halifax, Kingston, Middleborough, Plymouth, Plympton, Rochester, and Wareham.
“We have not seen an outbreak of EEE for four years in Massachusetts,” said DPH Commissioner Robbie Goldstein. MD, PhD. “This year’s outbreak and activity raise the risk for communities in parts of the state. We need to use all our available tools to reduce risk and protect our communities. We are asking everyone to do their part.”
“Due to the increased EEE risk and the first human case of the season, the state is taking decisive action to protect public health,” said MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle. “Aerial spraying will target mosquitoes carrying the EEE virus. While these measures are crucial for reducing transmission risk, it's vital for everyone to stay vigilant and follow personal protection guidelines to safeguard our community.”
The pesticide used is Anvil 10+10, an EPA-registered product extensively tested and used in both ground-level and aerial spraying in the U.S. to control mosquitoes.
Compounds in this product have proven to be highly effective in killing mosquitoes worldwide for over 20 years.
Officials say the spraying will begin at night and will be dependent on the weather.
(Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images)