Harvard Public Schools nurse leader Colleen Nizgus and Principal James O’Shea sent the following message this afternoon to parents of Harvard school children:
Dear Parents,
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) confirmed Monday that there has been a third case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in a Massachusetts resident.
Based on this report, the threat level has been raised to “High” in many area towns and “Critical” in Athol, Orange, and Royalston.
EEE is a virus spread by infected mosquitoes. The first symptoms are high fever (over 103°), stiff neck, headache, and lack of energy. These symptoms can show up three to ten days after a bite from an infected mosquito.
The town of Harvard is not part of the Massachusetts Mosquito Control Program, which includes testing of mosquitoes. People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes. MDPH recommends the following measures to help protect you and your family:
• Be aware of peak mosquito hours- Dusk to dawn
• Apply insect repellent when outdoors- MDPH recommends a repellent that contains DEET. See their website for more specific information.
• Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks outdoors to keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
The Harvard Public Schools are concerned with this public health issue as well. As of today we are setting a 6 PM curfew for all sports, this includes practices and games. If this affects your child’s team, the coach will be in touch with you regarding changes in the schedule.
For more information about EEE please visit the Harvard Board of Health website.
Sincerely,
Colleen R. Nigzus RN, MSN
Nurse Leader Harvard Public School
James F. O’Shea
Principal
The Bromfield School
