September 10, 2019

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MA DPH) and the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture Resources (MDAR) have announced additional aerial spraying for EEE in parts of Middlesex, Worcester and Norfolk Counties.

This will begin this evening (09-10-19) and continue into next week.

The Town of Natick is included as part of the aerial spraying schedule for EEE in Middlesex County. While aerial spraying is weather and equipment dependent, the above average evening temperatures are likely to permit application.

The pesticide used for aerial spraying is Anvil 10 + 10, an EPA Registered product extensively tested and used in both ground-level and aerial spraying in the U.S. to control mosquitoes.

There are no health risks expected during or after spraying. There is no evidence that aerial spraying of Anvil 10 + 10 will exacerbate certain health conditions, such as asthma or chemical sensitivity.

More information on aerial spraying can be found on the MA DPH website:

https://www.mass.gov/guides/eee-in-massachusetts

The spray is a contact spray that will reduce the mosquito population but will not eliminate the threat.  It is imperative that you apply personal protection listed below.

At this time, the EEE Risk Level Category for the Town of Natick remains MODERATE, as determined by the MA Department of Public Health.

Simple preventative measures you can take to reduce risk include:

Wear mosquito repellent when outdoors

Wear long sleeves and long pants when outside

Be aware that mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn

Consider rescheduling any outdoor activities after 6:00 pm

Dump out any containers of standing water outside (don't forget tarps, tires, buckets and birdbaths)

Keep windows closed, but if open, repair window screens if torn

The Natick Public School Department has also restricted outside field activities after 6:00 pm.

Trapping and testing is ongoing through the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project and any results will be reported to the Natick Board of Health.

Please call the Natick Board of Health (508) 647-6460 if there are any other questions.

Further information can be found through the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project on their website:

www.cmmcp.org         or by telephone at (508) 393-3055

For additional information on aerial spraying:

https://www.mass.gov/news/state-officials-announce-additional-aerial-spraying-for-eee-in-critical-and-high-risk

*********