Undoubtedly you have read or heard in the media the increased threat of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Massachusetts.  There are human and Animal raises being reported almost daily.  These mosquito-borne diseases will remain active until we have a hard freeze, which could be as late as November.  Farm Bureau members are encouraged to vaccinate any unvaccinated equines (horses, ponies, donkeys), and to consult their veterinarian for vaccination of llamas and alpacas.  There have been Massachusetts cases reported in each of these animals!  If they have ever been vaccinated before, a booster now could save their life!  Threat levels are higher than ever in Massachusetts, so please take steps to protect your animals.

If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners should contact their veterinarian immediately. The presence of these diseases must be reported to MDAR's Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795 and the Department of Public Health (DPH) by calling 617-983-6800.

The State Reclamation and Mosquito Control Board within the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources oversee mosquito control in Massachusetts. For more information call 617-626-1777 or visit, http://www.mass.gov/agr/mosquito/index.htm