Massachusetts Battles Rare Mosquito-Borne Disease: Parks Closing at Night

A rare mosquito-borne disease, eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), has prompted the town of Plymouth, MA, to close parks and fields each evening. Health officials urge four other towns to avoid nighttime outdoor activities after detecting the first human case since 2020. EEE has no vaccine or treatment and carries severe health risks.

A rare mosquito-borne disease has prompted the town of Plymouth, Massachusetts, to close its parks and fields from dusk until dawn. The disease, eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), was detected in an elderly man, marking the first human case in the state since 2020.

State health officials announced that four other towns—Douglas, Oxford, Sutton, and Webster—are at critical risk. Residents are urged to finish outdoor activities by 6 p.m. until September 30 and by 5 p.m. afterwards. The virus, confirmed via mosquito sample last month, has infected multiple mosquitoes across the state.

With no vaccine or treatment available, EEE has severe health implications. Jennifer Callahan, Oxford's town manager, stressed the disease's serious consequences, highlighting the hospitalization of a recent patient. The CDC reports a 30% mortality rate for EEE, with many survivors suffering permanent disabilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)