Triple E Prevention Tips for Oxford Residents

Oxford Community Takes Drastic Measures to Combat Triple E Outbreak

As more mosquitoes test positive for Eastern equine encephalitis , or Triple E , in Massachusetts , the town of Oxford is considering implementing a controversial curfew to protect residents . Four towns - Douglas , Oxford , Sutton , and Webster - are currently at critical risk for the mosquito - borne disease after a man in his 80s contracted it in Worcester County.

The fall youth sports seasons for soccer , football , and cheer are underway , but with the state 's first confirmed human case of Triple E , towns are beginning to impose curfews to limit exposure to infected mosquitoes . The Oxford Board of Health is expected to vote on banning all outdoor activities after 6 p.m. in September and after 5 p.m. in October . Webster has already imposed a similar curfew and conducted town - wide mosquito spraying.

The proposed curfew has sparked debate among parents and community members , with concerns about the impact it will have on youth sports . Parents of young athletes argue that they should have the right to decide whether their children can practice outdoors . The president of the Oxford Webster Youth Football & Cheer Program expressed concerns about the season being cut short due to the restrictions.

Despite the pushback from some residents , health officials emphasize the importance of taking preventive measures to avoid further cases of Triple E. In 2019 , Massachusetts saw a dozen EEE infections , with half of the patients succumbing to the illness . The health director , Rike Sterrett , emphasized the severe health impacts , including neurological issues , associated with Triple E. The decision to implement a curfew is aimed at preventing new infections and protecting the community.

With the Oxford Board of Health set to make a decision on the curfew on Wednesday , residents are petitioning to keep sports fields open . The debate between safety measures and personal freedoms continues , as the community grapples with the risks posed by the mosquito - borne disease . Oxford residents are eager to have their voices heard and play a role in determining the best course of action for their families and the community as a whole.