EEE and West Nile Virus in RI and Mass.

PROVIDENCE, RI (WPRI) - The Rhode Island Department of Health and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has announced that mosquitoe pools have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis. An additional test of mosquitoes in Pawtucket and South Kingstown also tested positive for West Nile Virus.

Likewise, Mayor Flanagan of Fall River confirmed reports Wednesday afternoon that a mosquitoe trap in the city also tested positive for EEE.

In Rhode Island this is the second mosquitoe pool this summer that has tested positive for EEE. It is the first test that came back positive for West Nile Virus.

“At this time of the year, we expect to see both EEE and WNV in mosquitoes,” said Director of Health David R. Gifford, MD, MPH. “Until the first heavy frost in the fall, all Rhode Islanders should be taking the proper precautions to avoid mosquito bites and should be removing standing water from their yards. It is likely that we will see more communities test positive as mosquitoes spread across the state.”

In Massachusetts the first human case of EEE was reported two weeks ago. Health officials also believe that a Rhode Island man developed EEE symptoms in Southeaster Massachusetts.

EEE and West Nile Virus can both potentially be fatal if not detected and treated rapidly.

Due to the findings in Rhode Island and Massachusetts officials are urging all communities to utilize “smart scheduling” by moving outdoor activities inside that are planned for dawn, dusk, or early evening.