City of Bangor, ME
09/17/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/17/2024 11:35
City urges residents to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses
For immediate release: Sept. 17, 2024
Contact: Jennifer Gunderman
Public Health Director
Telephone: 207-992-4550
Email: [email protected]
City urges residents to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses
BANGOR, Maine - The City of Bangor is encouraging residents to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses after animals in recent weeks have tested positive for either Eastern Equine Encephalitis or West Nile Virus.
Bangor Public Health and Community Services reports that the City was informed last week by the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention that a llama tested positive for EEE. A few weeks ago an emu in the region tested positive for the same disease. And a crow found in Bangor was positive for West Nile Virus.
EEE is a rare but serious disease that spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito. Anyone can get EEE, but people who spend time outdoors are at the highest risk, according to the Maine CDC. Signs and symptoms of EEE include fever and chills, weakness, headaches, and confusion. Symptoms usually start four to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and last one to two weeks, Maine CDC says.
Some of the steps that can be taken to prevent EEE include repellant for use on skin, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside, and removing any standing water outside a home or other structures. More information can be found at www.maine.gov/dhhs/EEE.
West Nile also is spread by an infected mosquito, but can also be spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, breastfeeding, and from mother to baby during pregnancy, the Maine CDC says.
Signs and symptoms are similar to those for EEE. Most people infected with West Nile will not show any signs of illness. But those who show mild symptoms will feel them three to 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
The steps people take to protect themselves against EEE can also be used for protection against West Nile. For more information, go to www.maine.gov/dhhs/westnile.
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The City of Bangor, Maine, is a service center community of 31,753 residents and is the county seat of Penobscot County. Bangor is the major commercial and cultural center for much of northern and eastern Maine. The City is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. For information on City projects and news, see www.bangormaine.gov.