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September 11, 2006

Update: R.I. test sites show no sign of West Nile/EEE

PROVIDENCE -- Recent samples from mosquito pools in Rhode Island have been tested negative for West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis disease.

But scientists at the state Department of Environmental Management say Rhode Islanders should still protect themselves from mosquito bites. That's because an increasing number of pools in Southern New England have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

A blue jay found in northern Seekonk, in neighboring Massachusetts, has tested positive for the mosquito-borne West Nile virus, prompting the town's Health Department today to urge residents to take precautions.

The Seekonk school district had already decided on Friday, before today’s announcement about the blue jay, to cut off athletic practices past 6 p.m. and to cancel all night games, said Interim Schools Supt. Emile Chevrette. He said the night games, such as two football contests this month, will be rescheduled as day games.

-- WIth reports from Journal staff writer Michael McKinney and the Associated Press

Posted by Steve Peoples  at 4:15 PM | Permalink

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