Marion Board of Health gets updates on two serious viruses

Jul 21, 2020

MARION — The Board of Health got updates on two serious viruses on July 21: coronavirus and eastern equine encephalitis. 

Public Health Nurse Kathy Downey said that the number of coronavirus tests has increased 20%, likely due to the Stop the Spread campaign, which is offering eight free testing locations in New Bedford. All of the tests so far have come back negative, she said. 

Health Agent Dave Flaherty gave an update on the mosquito borne virus EEE, which has not been found in any humans or animals in Massachusetts, but was found in five mosquitos in Carver. 

The health agent said that the risk of the rare but serious disease is still low in Marion, but if people are concerned they can call Plymouth County Mosquito Control to have their yard sprayed. 

To request spraying for mosquitos call  (781) 585-5450 and leave a  name, address, phone number, and email. For more information about Stop the Spread testing, see https://www.mass.gov/info-details/stop-the-spread#new-bedford-.