Significant Decline in Mosquito Population Following Aerial Spraying

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced in a release that the aerial spraying conducted the weekend of July 20-22 reduced the mosquito population by approximately 60 percent within the 21-community spray zone in Southeastern Massachusetts. 

Easton was on the list to be sprayed, along with area towns like Norton, Bridgewater, East Bridgewater, West Bridgewater, Raynham and Taunton.

Mammal-biting mosquitoes have .

Despite spraying, the risk level for mosquito-borne illness in Easton remains "high."

Even with the success of the recent aerial spraying, the DPH cautions that "aerial spraying generally only kills mosquitoes in flight during the spray operation, and the risk of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) remains a concern with the identification of multiple pools of EEE-positive mosquitoes within portions of the spray zone."

"All residents, regardless of location, are urged to continue taking personal precautions to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses, including Eastern Equine Encephalitis," the DPH states on its website. "These include using insect repellent, covering exposed skin when outside, and avoiding outdoor activities between the hours of dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are at their most active."

To see the current risk level for towns across the state, click here.