Communities along the border between Southern New Hampshire and the Merrimack Valley are gearing up for another fight against eastern equine encephalitis.

The mosquito-borne illness has been a problem for the region over the past few years. In 2005, there were seven cases of human infection with EEE in Southern New Hampshire, including two deaths. In 2006, New Hampshire reported no cases of human infection, however mosquitoes carrying the virus were found across the region. Two people died in southeastern Massachusetts of the disease last year.

EEE tends to flare up for a period of three to five years, then disappear for as many as 20 years. The disease kills about three of every 10 people it infects. Those who survive can suffer long-term brain damage.

New Hampshire communities are preparing to spray pesticides to kill mosquito larvae. Such spraying is usually done in April. Later in the year, if the disease detection data warrant, towns can spray to kill adult mosquitoes.

New Hampshire has set aside $158,000 to reimburse Rockingham County towns up to 25 percent of the cost of their mosquito control programs. The state aid is welcome as such programs can cost communities $40,000 to $50,000 per year.

EEE is a serious threat to human health and safety. April is when the mosquito-control effort must begin. We encourage other communities to follow Southern New Hampshire's lead.