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It sounds like something out of a bad horror movie: an emergency declaration because of mosquitoes.
In this case, it may not be as drastic as it sounds. However, the danger of the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses is real and state and local officials are wise to consider ways to plan and react before the risk becomes even worse. Thoughtful, proactive and transparent planning is especially needed if communities consider pesticide spraying to reduce mosquito populations.
The state’s Arboviral Public Health Panel voted earlier this month to recommend a public health emergency because of the spread of illnesses carried by mosquitoes. Such a declaration would need the approval of Gov. Janet Mills. It would be the first such public health emergency declaration related to mosquito-borne illnesses in Maine.
A public health emergency could allow state and local agencies better access to funds to monitor and control mosquitoes. It could also allow municipalities to undertake interventions where needed more quickly.
It is different from a state of emergency, like what was declared at the start of the COVID-19 outbreak, which grants the governor broad powers.
Mosquito-borne illnesses have become more widespread across New England, especially as warmer temperatures have extended the season when mosquitoes are active.
Ten counties in Maine have confirmed mosquito-borne disease cases.
A second Mainer has been infected with West Nile virus this year. It was the first case in four years of a Mainer contracting the virus locally, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
West Nile virus has infected 15 known wild birds in Maine this year.
Eastern equine encephalitis has been found in four horses, two emus, one llama and one wild turkey. A New Hampshire man infected with that virus died in August. Additional human cases of the disease were reported in Massachusetts and Vermont.
A third disease, the Jamestown Canyon virus, has been found in four mosquito pools this year, including in Orono.
Although the disease is rare, it can be very serious and about a third of the people who become infected die, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Survivors can suffer lifelong mental and physical disabilities.
Towns in some New England states have canceled outdoor events and rescheduled school sports practices to times when mosquitoes are not active. Public health officials in some communities have advised residents to stay inside at dusk, when the mosquitoes are most active.
That hasn’t happened in Maine yet, but caution is still warranted until cooler weather drives the mosquitoes away. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors is advised. As is using an EPA registered bug repellent.
Although mosquitoes will likely be active in Maine for a few more weeks, the state can begin preparing for next year’s season now. Giving municipalities the tools they need, and a speedy process to implement them, can help. However, this should not circumvent needed discussions about pesticide spraying, which can have widespread effects.
