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Note: From the Halifax Board of Health: Last year the Halifax Board of Health was advised to close the West Monponsett Pond to swimming because of the high algae count of types that can produce toxins. This year, MA DPH has received funding from CDC to monitor algae, as an important emerging health threat. DPH chose our West Monponsett Pond to sample and test at least once a week this summer. (The sample site is the Town Beach at Fourth Ave.) This is one of only five water bodies selected for study. I consider us fortunate to be receiving this information and guidance for free.
As you probably know, the West Monpsonsett Pond has been getting greener with algae each year. Already, the DPH team has found that the cell count for algae has exceeded the limit for health and safety and, so, the Town Beach is now closed. It can, I believe, be safely assumed that the same conditions exist in the rest of the W. Pond.
Please help us to spread the word that people should not swim in the West Monponsett Pond and pets should not drink the water from it.
In regards to boating, people should understand that
a.) spray from motor boats can be a problem if there is contact with the eyes and mouth and that should be prevented. and,
b.) Also, the movement from motor boats can also break up the algae cells. This might sound good but, in actuality, the toxins are released when the cell is broken or dies off. So, the water is potentially more dangerous where motor boats have been (but people should not be swimming there, anyway.)
c.) People react differently to the toxins in algae. People with existing respiratory problems, such as asthma, can be at greater risk of serious reactions if they breathe in the spray from boats.
West Nile Virus and EEE Update
While the Department of Public Health has not reported finding birds or mosquitoes with EEE (Eastern Equine Encephalitis) or (WNV) West Nile Virus in Halifax, birds and mosquitoes found in the region have tested positive. Therefore, residents should observe precautions in their outdoor activities and take measures to discourage mosquitoes from breeding on their property.
The Department of Public Health published its most recent update on September 2, 2008. In addition it has the published the following materials:
For more information regarding Halifax's response plan, call the Board of Health at (781) 293-6768. To request spraying of your yard call the Plymouth County Mosquito Control Program at (781) 585-5450.
The Halifax Board of Health would like to remind everyone to take precautions when they are outside such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants if you must be outside, avoid dusk to dawn activities.
You can pick up a copy of the fact sheet on mosquitoes at the Board of Health Office and Holmes Public Library.
Meeting Minutes (in Word document format)
Board of Health Agent Columns