Mayor James J. Fiorentini > Press Release

Mosquito spraying north of 495 on Thursday Night, August 31st from 8 PM to 2 AM

 A Melanura Mosquito that tested positive for Triple EEE  was found in a mosquito trap north of I 495 by Northeast Mosquito Control District staff.  Based on their recommendations, Mayor James J. Fiorentini, in consultation with the Board of Health, ordered mosquito spraying in  sections of  Haverhill northwest Rte 495  to  the Methuen border and north of Rte 495 to the Salem, Atkinson,  and Plaistow , New Hampshire borders .  The spraying will take place Thursday night , August 31st  from 8  PM  to 2  AM.

Homeowners can request to have their property excluded from public area-wide mosquito spraying by calling the Northeast Mosquito Control Board at 978-463-6630. Please leave your name, telephone number and address.

 The Mayor said, "We all need to take the mosquito borne virus problem seriously.  People need to be sure that they are taking proper precautions including using effective mosquito repellents with DEET.  I urge people not to go out from dusk to dawn, and, if they do, to make certain they are covered with long clothing and wear DEET.  DEET should never be used on children under age 2.”

The Mayor also urged people to avoid areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed and to search their yards for tires and debris that may hold standing water.  “We are going to take all reasonable steps to protect the public” said Fiorentini. 

Information about spraying is available on the internet at - http://www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/factsheets/fsmosquito_spraying.pdf