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EEE, West Nile, Potential Pandemics

PSU is working with local, state and federal officials to develop response plans to pandemics. We are in regular communication with health officials and we continue to monitor the threats posed to the campus by suspect pandemic illnesses like the avian flu.

In the event of a suspected outbreak or problem, you will be given detailed instructions via campus communication channels about steps to take or procedures to follow to deal with the medical emergency.

We are also working with local and state officials to monitor the area for exposure to West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

WNV and EEE are carried by infected mosquitoes. Although every effort is being made to monitor and prevent the spread of these illnesses, you can also take steps to prevent their spread.

• Report any dead birds on campus to the Physical Plant at X2254.
• Off campus, contact your town’s health officer. In Plymouth, contact the Health Officer at 536-1253 or the Deputy Health Officer at 536-1731.
• Do not attempt to handle any dead wild animals. Contact the proper authorities for assistance.
• Eliminate mosquito breeding areas by regularly cleaning or eliminating areas where water can quickly stagnate, such as small pools, birdbaths, trash cans, empty planters, etc.
• Contact the Physical Plant at X2254 if you see such areas on campus.

• To avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, the State of New Hampshire Department of Health & Human Services (NH DHHS) recommends the following:
  
  
  • Use insect repellent with DEET when outside during mosquito season
    • For adults - 30% or less DEET containing products
    • For children – 10% or less DEET containing products. Adults should apply on children
    • Repellents that contain Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus have also been determined to be effective
      
  • If possible, stay inside between dusk and dark, when mosquitoes are most active.
    
  • When outside between dusk and dark, wear long pants and long sleeved shirts
    
  • Keep screens on windows and make sure they do not have holes.

For more information on illness prevention, pandemic planning, WNV and EEE, visit the NH DHHS Web site