Good afternoon,
The Town of Barrington is closely monitoring the status of EEE reports from the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH). The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) has test traps throughout the State, including one in Barrington that is monitored on a bi-weekly basis. As of today, there have been no positive tests for EEE or West Nile Virus in Barrington. However, the RIDEM and RIDOH have identified all communities in our State as high risk areas.
The RIDEM and the RIDOH provided updates on mosquito-borne illnesses on Thursday to the Rhode Island Interscholastic League (RIIL). As a result, Barrington Public Schools will adjust the athletic contest times for home outdoor events. These adjustments are necessary to minimize exposure and protect the health and safety of our student-athletes, staff, and spectators.
Today, our home football game with Cranston East will now begin at 4:45 pm. Other contests may be adjusted accordingly. Please continue to check the Barrington Athletic website for any changes that may occur to game schedules.
Our Athletic Director has informed coaches and those leading activities to follow the guidelines from the RIDOH to reduce exposure to any mosquito-borne illness. Staff will;
- Provide the use of insect repellent as needed, for our athletes and spectators.
- Remind students to wear long sleeves and pants to increase protection from insect bites.
- Adjust practice or game times, if necessary, to decrease exposure at dusk.
The Town of Barrington and Barrington Public Schools will continue to provide updates as they become available.
For more information regarding mosquito-borne transmission and illnesses, please go to the Department of Health website at http://www.health.ri.gov/diseases/mosquitoes/?parm=46
Michael B. Messore III
Superintendent
Barrington Public Schools
283 County Road
Barrington, R.I. 02806
(401) 245-5000 ex1
(401) 245-5003 fax
www.barringtonschools.org
messorem@barringtonschools.org