7pm 9/10/2019 Aerial Spraying as Precaution for EEE

From the Town of Needham website (https://www.needhamma.gov):

Needham remains at a LOW risk level for EEE. There currently have been no positive mosquitoes identified within Needham, but many surrounding communities have been classified as High or Critical risk by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Parts of Needham are in the mandated spraying zone because of the risk in those neighboring communities. The portion of Needham in the spraying zone is the area south and west of Route 135.  

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health mandated aerial spraying due to the unusually high EEE activity in surrounding areas and continued elevated temperatures. Spraying will begin tonight at 7pm and could continue for several evenings. Changes in weather can determine which areas will be sprayed on a given evening.  Updates will be provided on the Town’s website daily.

No health risks are expected during or after spraying and there is no evidence that aerial spraying will exacerbate certain health conditions including asthma or chemical sensitivities. No special precautions are recommended; however residents can reduce exposure by staying indoors during spraying. Aerial spraying is not expected to have any impacts on surface water or drinking water.

REMEMBER Needham remains at LOW risk but your first defense to reduce your risk of infection is to wear an EPA approved bug spray, long sleeves and long pants. You should strongly consider limiting all outdoor activity from dusk to dawn.

As a precautionary measure, Claxton, High Rock, Newman and Walker Gordon fields will close at 6:30pm this evening.  The Board of Health recommends that residents south and west of Route 135 refrain from outdoor activities during this time.

For further information please check the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) website at:  https://www.mass.gov/guides/eee-in-massachusetts

For more information, go to the Needham website at https://www.needhamma.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1037