Mass. Health Officials: More Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Not Sure Why

"RAYNHAM -- A new study on Eastern equine encephalitis shows the number of people in Massachusetts who have contracted the mosquito-borne virus has grown in recent years."



"State health officials said nine people have contracted EEE since 2006, after what they said were many years without a human case. Last year, Raynham resident and civic leader Martin Newfield died at age 80 after contracting the virus.

The appearance of the potentially fatal illness in Massachusetts has scientists asking whether something new is happening, said Kevin Cranston of the state Department of Public Health. A state panel is working on a report on the virus in humans.

Meanwhile, health agents from 12 communities in the southeastern part of the state where the illness has been most prevalent continue to urge state health officials for more aerial spraying of pesticides to get rid of mosquitoes."

Amy Carboneau reports for the Brockton Enterprise May 20, 2012.

Source: Brockton Enterprise, 05/22/2012