Aerial Mosquito Spraying to be Done in Norton

More Eastern Equine Encephalitis mosquitoes have been found in the area, leading to aerial spraying in Norton and surrounding towns as soon as possible.

More EEE-positive mammal-biting mosquitoes have been found in Easton, and  are urging residents to take precautions when outside from dawn to dusk. 

The mosquitoes came from the Raynham and Taunton side of Easton, the same site as those in which Eastern Equine Encephalitis was detected recently. Easton was among the first to get EEE-positive mosquitoes in Massachusetts this year. News of those first mosquitoes was announced last Wednesday. 

There have been no human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) or EEE so far this year. 

In addition to Norton, the state will spray in Bridgewater, Carver, Easton, Halifax, Lakeville, Middleborough, Norton, Plympton, Raynham, Taunton and West Bridgewater.

According to a press release by the Department of Public Health, the state is currently working to procure the insecticides and planes needed to conduct aerial spraying in these communities. Spraying will begin as soon as possible and will follow appropriate public notification and outreach. The final timeline will be determined by tomorrow.

“It’s important to note that aerial spraying can only reduce but not eliminate the threat of mosquito-borne illness in the areas that are sprayed,” said DPH commissioner John Auerbach. “That’s why it’s so important for individuals in these communities to continue to take personal precautions against mosquito bites – both before and after aerial spraying is conducted.”

Health officials will continue to conduct enhanced mosquito sampling in the coming days and have already increased ground spraying activities.

has more details about the latest positive test. Residents are encouraged to check the Department of Public Health website for updates. For more information on how to reduce the risk of contracting EEE .