Understanding Eastern Equine Encephalitis: The New Dangerous Mosquito-Borne Illness

Photo byMedia by Jane Zhou | The Brown Daily Herald

As the summer months stretch on and mosquito activity peaks, health officials are urging caution about a rare but serious mosquito-borne illness: Eastern Equine Encephalitis (E.E.E.). Although it’s not as widely known as some other mosquito-transmitted diseases, E.E.E. is making headlines due to recent cases in the Northeast, including a fatality in New Hampshire. Let’s dive into what you need to know about this elusive virus, its risks, and how you can protect yourself.

What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis?

Eastern Equine Encephalitis is a viral infection transmitted primarily through mosquito bites. Unlike more common mosquito-borne illnesses, E.E.E. is relatively rare but significantly more severe. It belongs to a group of viruses that cause encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain. While many mosquito-borne diseases like the West Nile virus have gained more public attention, E.E.E. remains less familiar yet potentially far more dangerous.

The virus thrives in certain environmental conditions, often affecting rural or swampy areas where mosquitoes breed. It’s important to note that E.E.E. is not spread from person to person; it is solely transmitted through mosquitoes, which pick up the virus from infected birds and then pass it on to humans.

The Severity of E.E.E.

One of the most alarming aspects of E.E.E. is its severity. Though many who contract the virus might never develop severe symptoms, those who do can face a daunting prognosis. About 30% of those who develop symptoms die from the disease. For survivors, the impact can be long-lasting, with many experiencing significant neurological problems such as memory loss, motor skill impairments, and cognitive difficulties.

The virus is known for its unpredictability. While the chances of contracting the disease are relatively low, the consequences can be dire if one does become infected. The sudden onset of symptoms—such as fever, headache, and stiff neck—can quickly escalate to more severe issues like seizures and coma.

Plymouth, MA has a ban in effect for all outdoor activities between dusk and dawn.Photo byAP Photo / Steven Senne

Recent Developments

This summer, E.E.E. has been making its presence felt in the Northeast. New Hampshire has reported its first case since 2014, which sadly resulted in a death. Other states in the region, such as Vermont and Massachusetts, have also reported cases, marking a notable increase in the virus’s activity.

Despite its rarity, health officials are taking these reports seriously. The resurgence of E.E.E. highlights the importance of remaining vigilant during peak mosquito season. As mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn, this is the critical time to be especially cautious.

Preventive Measures

To protect yourself from E.E.E., reducing your exposure to mosquitoes is crucial, especially during peak activity times from dusk to dawn. Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks when outdoors, and use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Additionally, eliminating standing water around your home, where mosquitoes breed, can significantly decrease their numbers. Mosquitoes can reproduce in even the smallest amounts of stagnant water, so regularly empty and clean items like bird baths, pet dishes, and gutters to keep them from becoming breeding grounds.

Protect Your Animals

For those with animals, taking steps to protect them from mosquito-borne illnesses is also essential. Reducing potential mosquito breeding sites around your property is a good first step. This involves eliminating standing water from containers such as buckets, tires, and wading pools, especially after heavy rains. Water troughs are common mosquito breeding habitats, so they should be flushed out at least once a week during the summer months to keep mosquitoes at bay near paddock areas.

Horse owners, in particular, should consider keeping their horses in indoor stalls at night to minimize their exposure to mosquitoes. Consulting with a veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for animals and discussing vaccinations to prevent both West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis can further safeguard their health. Ensuring that your animals are well-protected is an important part of managing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases on your property.

What to Do If You Suspect Infection

If you experience symptoms that could indicate E.E.E.—such as a sudden high fever, severe headache, or neck stiffness—seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and supportive care are crucial in managing the disease and potentially improving outcomes.

Healthcare providers may conduct tests to confirm the presence of the virus and rule out other conditions. While there is no specific antiviral treatment for E.E.E., supportive care can help manage symptoms and complications.

The Bigger Picture

The recent cases of E.E.E. underscore the importance of awareness and preparedness when it comes to mosquito-borne diseases. Even though E.E.E. is rare, its potential for severe outcomes makes it a significant public health concern. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to prevent mosquito bites, you can reduce your chances of contracting this dangerous virus.

As we navigate through mosquito season, staying informed and vigilant can make all the difference. While the likelihood of encountering E.E.E. may be low, the potential consequences of infection make it essential to practice preventive measures and stay alert to health advisories in your area.

Stay safe, and don’t let the summer buzz put a damper on your outdoor enjoyment. With a bit of caution and preparation, you can enjoy the season while keeping mosquito-borne illnesses at bay.