The Massachusetts Department of Public Health raised the EEE risk level to high on September 13, 2024 as a result of the confirmation of EEE virus in mosquito samples in Concord and the proximity of high risk levels in surrounding communities.  In response, the Concord Board of Health held an emergency meeting on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024 at 7 PM via Zoom.  The Board took the following two actions: 

• Authorized the Health Director to sign Emergency Waivers received from various schools, public and private, to spray on school properties, in compliance with the (MA) Children’s Protection Act, https://www.cmmcp.org/pesticide-information/pages/childrens-protection-act#:~:text=The%20Children's%20Protection%20Act%20(CPA,(IPM)%20plan%20on%20site, and
• Strongly recommended community members restrict outdoor activities from dusk to dawn until the town’s risk level is reduced from high to moderate. At this time there is no mandate to restrict activities, however it is recommended to do so.

The areas will be posted with signage indicating that the area has been treated with pesticide for mosquito control. It is expected that the vegetation surrounding the perimeters of playing fields at CPS and CCRSD will be sprayed after dusk on Monday, 9/16/24.  Signage will be in place for 72 hours following the spraying. 

Residents are advised to continue to take action to limit exposure to mosquito bites:

• Avoid outside areas with obvious mosquito activity
• Use CDC recommended insect repellent anytime outdoors: Preventing Mosquito Bites | Mosquitoes | CDC
• Wear long sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks 
• Limit outdoor activities to the extent possible
• Remove standing water where mosquitoes can breed
• Repair window screens- keep mosquitoes out 

Questions?  Contact Melanie Dineen, Director, Concord Public Health mdineen@concordma.gov