Elevated EEE Risk Level in Foxborough

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has elevated Foxborough’s Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) risk level to Moderate after EEE-positive mosquitoes were recently identified in Rockland, Bridgewater, and Easton.

EEE is a rare but serious illness spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. While anyone can become infected, those under 15 years old and over 50 years old are at the greatest risk for severe illness.

To learn more, please visit the state’s mosquito-borne disease page: www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito

How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

Taking a few simple precautions can help reduce your risk of mosquito bites and EEE infection:

1. Avoid Mosquito Bites

• Use insect repellent when outdoors. Look for products with:

  • DEET (not for infants under 2 months; 30% or less for children)

  • Permethrin (for clothing/gear only, not skin)

  • Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under 3)

• Cover up with long sleeves, pants, and socks when possible.

• Be mindful of peak mosquito hours — dusk through dawn. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities during these times.

2. Mosquito-Proof Your Home

• Drain standing water around your home (flowerpots, birdbaths, wading pools, rain gutters, etc.).

• Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes outside.

Learn more: