PROVIDENCE – The state is advising residents and schools to consider rescheduling outdoor activities because of an elevated risk for mosquito-borne diseases in Rhode Island and neighboring states.
The “smart scheduling” recommendation suggests avoiding outdoor activities in the early morning or at dusk to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and catching diseases mosquitoes carry, including the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV) .
The Rhode Island Interscholastic League and municipal officials have been advised of the recommendation, which was made by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management , the Rhode Island Department of Health and their joint Mosquito Borne Disease Advisory Group.
RIIL Executive Director Michael P. Lunney sent a message to principals and athletic directors notifying them of the recommendation.
“The RIIL encourages all member schools to review the recommendations they have provided and take necessary precautions in coordination with school department and municipal response efforts regarding all community related sports and activities,” Lunney said.