West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis
-- Implications for Water Quality
West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) are growing concerns for many people. People want to know more about these diseases, how much of a concern they are in Maine, how they spread, and what people can do to minimize the risks.
The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) is the primary state agency for West Nile Virus information. The following information is provided by DEP to address, and give context to, the subject of aquatic pesticide application to control WNV.
Picture: Containers -- bring in, cover, drain, or remove. If they need to be outside, change the water regularly to avoid stagnant conditions where mosquitoes can breed.
Many things can be done to reduce the risks of WNV and EEE, while also avoiding impacts to the waterbodies, wetlands and aquatic life of Maine, on which we all depend. This is the particular concern of the Bureau of Land and Water Quality.
If you would like some background about the nature of WNV, how it affects people, and how it has spread in North America, go here for some background. For similar information about EEE, go here for some background.
Did you come to this page looking for information on the health effects of spraying? Questions on this subject should be directed to the Maine Board of Pesticides Control. (off-site)
Introduction. What do we need to know about Maine's mosquitoes so that we can appropriately target our efforts to lower the risk of WNV and EEE?
Homeowners. What things can homeowners do to reduce risks of WNV and EEE, while also keeping risks to the environment low?
Municipal officials. What does it mean when an infected bird is found? What steps need to be taken before spraying, so that pesticides will be knowledgeably and appropriately applied?
License requirements. What laws may apply? What factors does DEP consider when determining whether it is appropriate to allow the use of a pesticide in a natural waterbody?
Links. Links to additional material off-site.
