For Release: September 18, 1998

Contact: Alan Gettman, Ph.D. 789-6280

PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management received test results this afternoon showing that three pools of exclusively bird-biting mosquitoes from a trap set in Chapman Swamp, Westerly, and one pool from a trap set in the Great Swamp, South Kingstown, have tested positive for the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus. The pools were among 53 pools collected from 23 traps set statewide September 14.

The positive results came from the species Culiseta, which does not feed on humans or other mammals and therefore represents no direct threat to human health, according to Dr. Alan Gettman, DEM's Mosquito Abatement Coordinator. "We typically see isolated cases in bird-biting species most years at about this time," Gettman said.

DEM began trapping and testing mosquitoes at 18 trap sites in mid-June and, since then, has been routinely testing on a weekly basis at 23 sites statewide. Testing will continue through October. Gettman said that as a result of the new positive results, he will expand the number of traps set.

"Although EEE has not shown up in trapped mammal-biting mosquitoes," Gettman said, "people should continue to take common sense precautions to reduce exposure to mosquitoes until the first hard frost."

Those precautions include ensuring that screens are in good repair; reducing unnecessary outdoor activity at dusk and dawn; wearing protective clothing such as long pants and long-sleeved shirts; and applying products containing the mosquito repellent DEET to clothing. Formulations that contain more than 30 percent DEET are unnecessary and may enhance skin reactions on some people. Repellents should not be used on infants, and children should be cautioned to avoid getting repellents in their eyes. Residents should also keep their back years free of water-holding containers that create areas where mosquitoes can breed.

The mosquito abatement program has information on a website: www.uri.edu/research/eee There is also a DEM webpage with rabies contacts information..