Games rescheduled due to mosquito risk

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) - Games and practices in North Kingstown , which are held outdoors and at night, will now be moved to the afternoon because of the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.

North Kingstown School Superintendent, Dr. Philip Auger, says the decision was made based on a recommendation from the Rhode Island Department of Health .

School Committee Chair Kimberly Page says she agrees with the decision, even though it will be hard on some families.

“It’s a huge inconvenience to parents because parents like to go to the games in the evening when they’re home from work,” Page said.

The decision will affect outdoor sports like football, soccer, field hockey and also cheerleading.

“I doubt if anyone is happy,” Page said, “It’s the sort of thing that it’s more convenient to go to a game in the evening. However this came from the Rhode Island Health Department.”

Because of the threat of Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile Virus, state health officials are urging all Rhode Island school administrators and town officials to employ “ smart scheduling ” of all outdoor activities.

Events would either be rescheduled to a time when fewer mosquitoes are present, or moved indoors.