THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, AugusT 14, 2026 Page 7 Everett voters have multiple options for September State Primary Special to The Advocate E verett voters have several convenient options to cast their ballot ahead of the Massachusetts State Primary on Tuesday, Sept. 1, including in-person early voting and vote-by-mail. Early voting will be available at Everett City Hall (484 Broadway) from Saturday, Aug. 22, through Thursday, Aug. 27. Residents who are not yet registered to vote have until Saturday, Aug. 22, to register. Voter registration will be available that day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Voters who would like to vote by mail must submit their application by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 25. The Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth has mailed vote-by-mail application postcards to every registered voter, and ballots are expected to be mailed in early August. On Primary Election Day, Tuesday, Sept. 1, all Everett polling locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Registered Democrats and Republicans must vote in their respective party’s primary. Unenrolled voters (sometimes referred to as Independent More Than an Itch: Treating and Preventing Summer Insect Bites and Health Risks By Dr. Ana Stankovic, chief medical officer, United Healthcare of New England B etween backyard barbecues, beach vacations, and hiking trails, warmer weather encourages us to spend more time outdoors. But alongside all the summer fun in the sun comes the often-overlooked health risk of insect bites and stings. Many people consider insect bites to be nothing more than an itchy inconvenience. A mosquito bite, a bee sting, or a tick found after a hike may seem like an inevitable part of enjoying nature. However, some bites and stings can lead to serious health concerns, including severe allergic reactions and diseases. West Nile is one of the most common mosquito-borne diseases in the continental United States, and Lyme disease is one of many illnesses caused by a pathogen ticks may carry.1 The challenge is that it’s often difficult to tell the difference between a harmless insect and one carrying disease, and many tickborne diseases share signs and symptoms. That’s why prevention and awareness are so important. Nearly one in 10 Americans experiences a tick bite each year,2 yet nearly two-thirds of adults report that they rarely or never check themselves for ticks after spending time outdoors.3 Knowing how to reduce insect bites, identify symptoms, and understand when to self-care vs. seek medical attention can create an enjoyable, pest-free summer. Spot the Signs Most insect bites cause mild reactions such as itching, redness, warmth or minor swelling, and these symptoms can typically be managed with basic first aid. Washing the affected area, applying an ice pack, and using overthe-counter anti-itch creams or antihistamines may help relieve discomfort. However, certain symptoms should never be ignored. Difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the lips or throat, nausea, vomiting, cramping or severe headaches may indicate a serious allergic reaction and require immediate medical attention. Importantly, half of all fatal reactions to insect stings occur in people with no previous history of severe allergies, underscoring the importance of recognizing warning signs quickly.4 Any tick bites that lead to fever and chills, aches and pains, fatigue, or rashes should be addressed by a healthcare provider. Tickborne pathogens can cause fever and rashes that can vary or be absent, along with different associated symptoms depending on the specific pathogen. Based on your symptoms, examination, the geographic region where you were bitten, and lab results, a medical professional can develop an appropriate treatment plan. Before the Bite Prevention remains the best defense against bug-related illnesses. Wearing long sleeves and pants when possible, using EPA-registered insect repellents and taking precautions around your home can significantly reduce exposure. For ticks, a thorough body and scalp check after spending time outdoors is essential, particularly because ticks can live in any grassy, brushy or wooded area. This is especially important in Massachusetts, which has a high incidence of reported Lyme disease cases.1 Mosquito prevention matters just as much. Repairing damaged window and door screens PREVENTING | SEE PAGE 13 voters) may choose either a Democratic or Republican ballot when voting in the primary. The State Primary will determine each party’s nominees for state and local offices that will appear on the November General Election ballot. The Commonwealth’s nine statewide ballot questions will be decided during the November election. For additional information, including early voting hours, polling locations, voter registration and vote-by-mail, contact the Everett Elections Department at 617-394-2297 or visit the City of Everett’s Elections webpage. Residents can also verify their voter registration status, polling location and voting options through the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth before Election Day. Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lien * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net
8 Publizr Home