How to Protect Yourself from EEE
Monday, August 16, 2010
With the outbreak of EEE (Eastern Equine Encephalitis) in Rhode Island this weekend, here are some preventative measures the Health Department says you can take to protect yourself and your family.
EEE is a virus transmitted through mosquito bites. Although the virus is very rare—the last outbreak in Rhode Island was in 1998—steps should be taken to protect yourself from this fatal virus.
As Simple as Bug Spray: Using bug spray with DEET is the easiest and most effective way to prevent EEE. The bug spray should have no more than 30% DEET. Bug spray containing DEET should not be used on infants.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTCover Up: Mosquitoes are most active during sunrise and sunset, so during these times of day wear long sleeves and long pants to protect yourself. Also, covering children’s playpens and carriages with mosquito netting will keep away the bugs.
Keep them out: Make sure that if doors and windows are left open, there are screens to protect your house. It is very important to keep your home mosquito-free, so also repair any holes your screens may have.
Get Rid of Mosquito Breeding Grounds: In just one cup of water, thousands of mosquitoes can be produced. To eliminate the risk of possible mosquito breeding grounds, clean out anything around your house that collects water—such as children’s pools, birdbaths, and gutters.
For more information on EEE, visit the Rhode Island Health Department or the Centers for Disease Control or call the Health Department’s Information Line at 222-5960/RI Relay 711, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.