The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) have reported an elevated risk of mosquito-borne illnesses across Maine. As a school community, it is crucial that we take precautions to protect our students, staff, and families.
While York County is not currently listed among the highest-risk areas, all regions of Maine are considered to be at an elevated risk. The presence of these viruses in animals indicates that mosquitoes in our area may carry these diseases, posing a threat to human health.
To ensure the safety of our school community during outdoor activities, including recess, sports practices, and field trips, the Maine CDC is strongly advising the following precautions:
Use EPA-approved insect repellents
Wear protective clothing that covers skin, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks, especially during evening activities.
Eliminate standing water sources around homes and school grounds to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
Ensure all windows have intact, tight-fitting screens.
Consult with our school's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) coordinator for additional strategies to improve campus safety.
Here are some additional resources:
Mosquito-borne disease fact sheets available under each disease.
School health manuals, including mosquito-borne diseases.
School Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program or IPM specialist at DACF, Hillary Peterson.
The Maine CDC is available 24/7 at 1-800-821-5821 or disease.reporting@maine.gov.
Board of Pesticides Control, 207-287-2731 or pesticides@maine.gov.