Residents Reminded to be Vigilant about Protecting Themselves from Mosquitoes
As we move into the later part of mosquito season, mosquito populations will start to decrease but older mosquitoes are also more likely to carry virus. It is essential that residents be reminded to be vigilant about taking all necessary steps to avoid mosquito bites. As Fall sports activities begin, residents are reminded that mosquitoes are highly attracted to both body heat and carbon dioxide and both are produced in higher amounts during physical activity.
The Cape Ann Boards of Health (Essex, Gloucester, Manchester and Rockport) reminds residents to take precautions when going outside so they can enjoy a happy and healthy fall.
West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) are two diseases carried by mosquitoes that you may have heard about.
· West Nile Virus (WNV) is a disease most commonly spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with WNV won’t have any symptoms and will recover on their own, but some may develop a fever, headache, nausea, a rash, or more serious symptoms.
To-date this year there have been over 200 positive WNV mosquito pools identified throughout Massachusetts, 0 positive horses and 2 human cases in Norfolk and Plymouth Counties.
· Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a very rare but serious disease caused by a virus transmitted through the bite of a mosquito. The first symptoms of EEE are fever, stiff neck, headache and lack of energy.
To-date this year there have been 32 positive EEE mosquito pools throughout Massachusetts, 3 positive horses and 1 human case in Norfolk County.
Local officials monitor mosquito activity and disease throughout the fall until a hard frost occurs and will advise residents if the risk changes.
The good news is that there are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from these diseases:
· Use the right bug spray anytime you are outdoors.
o With DEET but not more than 30% DEET for kids.
o Oil of Lemon eucalyptus is natural and as effective as low concentrations of DEET, though not as long-lasting.
o Be sure to read the label before applying.
· Wear long-sleeves, pants and socks when possible.
· Avoid the outdoors from dusk until dawn during peak mosquito biting times.
· Repair all screens to keep mosquitoes out.
· Drain standing water from places in your yard where mosquitoes can lay eggs and breed, such as flower pots, pet food and water dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, tarps, buckets, barrels and cans.
· Use mosquito netting over infant carriers when outdoors.
Regardless of whatever else is going on to control mosquitoes in your town, personal protection is your strongest defense against mosquitoes and the diseases they carry.
For more information go to http://www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito or visit your Cape Ann Town website.
Hi Joey!
We’ll have our next Community Contra Dance on Sunday, September 8 at the First Baptist Church Gloucester. We’ll start with a potluck at 5:00, provide a newcomers’ workshop at 6:30 and start the dance at 7:00. These dances have been great fun! This is a public event, open to all and family friendly. We look forward to welcoming new dancers and sit-in musicians. Nathan Cohen will be playing with us too!
Rose Sheehan
Folk Life Studio
Celebrating Wearable Art II! A seARTS Benefit
Sunday, September 29th, 2:00-5:30 PM
During Boston Fashion Week
What you will experience:
Over 60 unique looks of wearable art & fashion from local artists
Runway show with next generation of art & fashion from MassArt, Montserrat
and more
An exclusive shopping experience with local artists & designers
A chance to spend time with host-artists over “high tea”
Fabulous raffle prizes
For tickets, click here (please insert the following link:
http://searts.org/wp/celebrate-wearable-art-ii-2013-tickets-on-sale-now/)
Books Wanted for October Friends of the Rockport Library Book Sale
The Friends of the Rockport Library are preparing for the annual Fall Book Sale to be held October 18 to 20. Donations of clean books in good condition are being accepted at the library desk during the hours that the library is open. Hard back, paper backs, children’s books, DVDs, books on tape are needed for the sale.
No textbooks, magazines or encyclopedias will be accepted.
All proceeds from the book sale go to support programs for children and adults at the library.
Thank you
Dianne Anderson
Good Morning Gloucester 