Quarantine imposed in four US cities due to “fatal disease” – Deşeptarea.ro – Romanian media director

In the US state of Massachusetts, four towns – Douglas, Oxford, Sutton and Webster – have imposed quarantine measures in response to the rapid spread of a deadly mosquito-borne disease, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The authorities’ decision comes amid an alarming rise in infection cases, which have put strict restrictions in place to protect public health.

Strict restrictions for residents

Until now, residents of these four cities must stay indoors after 6pm to reduce the risk of exposure to mosquitoes, the main vectors of the disease. This measure will be in effect until September 30. Starting on October 1 and until the first frost, it is recommended that the people return to their homes even earlier, from 5:00 p.m.

These restrictions are considered necessary because the period from dawn to dusk is considered the peak time for mosquito activity, when the risk of disease transmission is greater.

A rare but extremely dangerous disease

Eastern equine encephalitis is described by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a “rare but very serious disease” that causes encephalitis, a brain disease that can be fatal. Although cases are very rare, when infections do occur the mortality rate is significant and those who survive may be left with serious neurological sequelae.

A case of EEE was confirmed in Massachusetts this year in a female patient who is still receiving treatment. Health authorities tested mosquito populations in the state, and the results showed that the EEE virus was present in all confirmed cases.

Call for warning and protective measures

The local authorities ask all residents to respect the measures that have been put in place and to be extremely careful, especially in the evening hours. It is recommended to use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing and avoid areas where mosquitoes are more active, such as swamps and wetlands, as much as possible.

Although the measures that have been put in place are strict, they are considered necessary to prevent the spread of an epidemic that could have a devastating effect on public health. In order for the situation to stabilize, the residents of the four cities must comply with the new regulations and take all necessary measures to protect themselves.