Mass. health officials to spray for mosquitoes

Posted: 07/21/12 at 7:10 pm EDT

BOSTON (AP) -- The state health department is urging 21 southeastern Massachusetts communities to take precautions during aerial spraying for mosquitoes this weekend.

Spraying is planned between 8:15 p.m. Saturday and 2 a.m. Sunday, because of the discovery of mosquitoes with Eastern equine encephalitis. There have been no human cases.

People and pets should stay indoors, close windows, turn off window fans and fresh air intakes on air conditioners. Exposed skin, clothing or other items, including home garden fruit and vegetables, should be washed with soap and water.

Communities affected are Acushnet, Berkley, Bridgewater, Carver, Dighton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Freetown, Halifax, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Middleborough, Norton, Pembroke, Plympton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Rochester, Taunton, and West Bridgewater.

Residents can call 2-1-1 or check the health department's website for details.

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