Pocomoke Mosquito Pool Positive For Eastern Equine Encephalitis

47 ABC - Delmarva's Choice

A local county has found an area of standing water has tested positive for a mosquito virus. The Worcester County Health Department says the State of Maryland has found that a mosquito pool in southern Worcester County, has tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

According to health department staff, the pools are reportedly monitored by state environment staff, and it is the first positive pool reported this year. The pool is reportedly located in Hickory Point Swamp near Pocomoke City, and is in a low-lying area that has standing water for most of the year.
"It's in the middle of a swamp area where there wouldn't be a lot of people in that location, but you have to remember mosquitoes travel for miles," says Kathleen Rose-Derr, Nursing Program Manager with the Worcester County Health Department.
The EEE virus is common during summer and fall, and is transmitted by mosquitoes, and spread to humans, and animals including birds, and horses. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a quarter of an inch of water, so experts believe recent rains may have attracted more to the area.

The Worcester County Health Department provides the following tips to help prevent contact with mosquitoes and reduce risk of infection:

· Stay indoors at dawn and dusk.

· Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.

· Use an EPA-registered insect repellent and follow package instructions.

· Get rid of mosquito breeding sites.

· Remove all discarded tires from property.

· Dispose of water-holding containers.

· Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly.

· Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out.

· Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when they are not in use.

"Get rid of any cups in your yard, anything that can collect water, even bottle caps," says Rose-Derr.

People who suffer from milder illnesses typically recover on their own without even knowing they have it, but that those symptoms could last for several weeks. In severe cases, some people need to be hospitalized, and get treatment. Symptoms of Eastern Equine Encephalitis include fever, headache, irritability, restlessness, drowsiness, vomiting, diarrhea, cyanosis, convulsions, and coma. Anyone with these symptoms, should contact a health care provider to be tested for EEE.

For more tips and information about Eastern Equine Encephalitis, please visit the Worcester County Health Department's website.