HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — A fourth death due to Eastern Equine Encephalitis (Triple E) has been confirmed in a Calhoun County resident. As of Oct. 2, 2019, nine Michigan residents and 33 animals have been found to have the incurable disease
State health officials continue recommending aerial spraying — at this point planned for portions of Allegan County’s Trowbridge and Gun Plain townships, currently set for a dusk-to-4:30 a.m. application tonight, Thursday, Oct. 3, through 4:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 4, 2019.
Ottawa County health officials issued a statement that Triple E has not yet been detected in humans or animals here. While there are no plans to spray or recommendations to postpone, reschedule or cancel outdoor activities is in effect at this time,
Allegan County resident in areas targeted for aerial spraying can expec to see low-flying aircraft starting at dusk and continuing though until 4:30 a.m.
The insecticide being used is an ultra-low volume (ULV) spray, dispensed in very fine aerosol droplets that stay suspended in the air and kill adult mosquitoes on contact. This is an approach other states, including Massachusetts and Rhode Island, have recently used to combat Triple E.
The insecticide being used is Merus 3.0, in a dose of 1 tablespoon per the size of a football field. Merus 3.0 is an EPA-registered, organic botanical adult mosquito insecticide containing five percent pyrethrins, which are naturally found in chrysanthemum flowers. Merus 3.0 can be used around organic crops and gardens.
Health officials say that, generally, health risks are not expected during or after spraying. No special precautions are recommended; however, residents and individuals who have known sensitivities to pyrethrins can reduce potential exposure by staying indoors during spraying. Aerial spraying is not expected to have any impacts on surface water or drinking water.
Property owners that have opted out prior to Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 8 p.m. should not be sprayed. For the most up to date information and frequently asked questions, visit www.Michigan.gov/EEE. Anyone concerned about the spraying process can email eee@michigan.gov.
