As the number of horses testing positive for the mosquito-born Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) increases, health officials in several states are warning owners to take special care. Horses should be vaccinated and protected with repellant. Humans should remember to practice the “5 D’s”:
Dusk and Dawn – Avoid being outdoors during this time.
Dress – Wear clothing that covers most of your skin.
DEET – When the potential exists for exposure to mosquitoes, repellents containing up to 30 percent DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) are recommended. Other effective mosquito repellents include picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535. Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before you apply a repellent. Some repellents are not suitable for children.
Drainage – Get rid of standing water, where mosquitoes lay eggs.
EEE cases have appeared throughout the northeast, including Massachusetts, where authorities planned recently to spray 27 cities and towns with pesticides
