Proudly Serving Essex, Middlesex and Rockingham Counties
Powassan virus is uncommon but serious and occurs in the Northeast. Jeff explains symptoms, the importance of prompt tick removal and checks, and why preventing blacklegged-tick bites matters.
Asian longhorned ticks are established in Massachusetts and can reproduce without mating. Jeff explains what CDC currently knows about their U.S. disease risk, why pets and livestock matter, and how homeowners can reduce tick exposure.
Massachusetts mosquito-borne disease risk changed quickly in August 2026. This update covers the season’s first EEE-positive mosquitoes, four human West Nile cases reported by Aug. 31, and why homeowners should keep checking current town risk levels.
Warmer conditions and changing precipitation patterns can lengthen mosquito and tick activity in New England. Jeff explains what a longer season can mean for Massachusetts and New Hampshire yards and which prevention steps still matter.
Jamestown Canyon virus spreads through infected mosquito bites and can cause mild illness or, rarely, serious neurologic disease. Jeff explains symptoms, treatment limits and practical bite-prevention steps.
Eastern equine encephalitis is rare but serious and spreads through infected mosquito bites. Jeff explains symptoms, why severe neurologic disease matters, and how Massachusetts homeowners can reduce mosquito-bite risk.
Skeeter syndrome is a large local allergic reaction to mosquito bites that can cause marked swelling, redness and warmth. Jeff explains how it differs from a typical bite and when symptoms deserve medical attention.
Tick control for dog owners starts with daily pet checks and a yard routine focused on brush, leaf litter, woods edges and other tick habitat. Jeff explains practical steps and when professional yard control may help.
Do bats, birds, bug zappers, repellent plants or opossums really control mosquitoes and ticks? Jeff separates popular backyard myths from the measures that actually reduce breeding, resting habitat and bite exposure.
Andover’s wetlands, ponds, mature trees and wooded property lines can create strong mosquito pressure. This article explains the local conditions that make some Andover yards especially challenging.