EEE, or Eastern Equine Encephalitis, is a mosquito-borne virus. Symptoms include nausea, fever, muscle aches, and in severe cases, permanent brain damage. Roughly 30% of people who get EEE will die from the infection. A majority of cases are seen in kids under the age of 15, or adults over the age of 50. Although it sounds scary, EEE is sporadic; in 2021, there were only 5 cases of EEE in the U.S. 

The Athletics department at LS has taken steps to mitigate the risk of EEE. Gary Ayala, a member of the LS boys’ soccer team, mentioned that many sports events have been moved. Cross country runner Benjamin McKinney also mentioned that out-of-school events, such as Boy and Girl Scouts, have also been affected. Many methods are being introduced to further reduce the risk of EEE infections. Daniel Lee, Director of Athletics at LS said, “Mr. Stephens and I have been in constant contact with the Sudbury Board of Health regarding EEE and its potential impact on athletics and other outdoor activities at the high school. At this time, Sudbury remains in the moderate risk for EEE and we have taken a proactive approach including spraying the campus and promoting wearing bug spray and long sleeves/pants when outside around dusk. We are fully aware that this is a fluid situation and are prepared to pivot if the risk increases.” 

Students who participate in athletics at LS thought that some of the methods of preventing EEE have been very successful. Benjamin McKinney has said that bug spray was very effective and helpful. As steps continue to be taken to prevent the spread of EEE, everyone should do their part to protect the community.