Deadly virus-transmitting mosquito found in Oregon for first time amid spread of EEE across US

The yellow fever mosquito has been discovered by officials in Jackson County, Oregon marking the first time this species has been found in the state.

Scientifically known as aedis aegypti mosquitoes , the Oregon Health Authority said that the mosquito can carry yellow fever, zika virus, chikungunya, dengue and more viruses. “The risk of these infections to local residents is low and depends on the presence or arrival of someone who is currently infected with one of these diseases after infection outside the U.S.,” Emilio DeBess, state public health veterinarian in the OHA’s Public Health Division, said in a news release.

As of right now there are no reports of any of these viruses being present in the area. “These mosquitoes are relatively small and have a black-and-white pattern due to the presence of white/silver scale patches against a black background on the legs and other parts of the body,” the release said.

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This species of mosquitoes usually likes warm and wet weather and likes to feed on humans usually during the day. The OHA says people can avoid being bitten by these mosquitoes in the same ways they prevent being bitten by any other kinds of mosquitoes.

Getting rid of standing pools of water, using bug spray, and wearing long pants and sleeves if possible are some ways people can protect themselves from being bitten. Residents should also fix leaking faucets and keep rain gutters cleared.

“Discovery of Aedes aegypti underscores the importance of our mosquito trapping system,” Debass said. “Tracking and monitoring the types of mosquitoes that exist in Oregon communities is critical. This, in turn, helps us identify potential public health implications and implement measures to reduce risk.”

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The discovery of this species of mosquito in Oregon comes as health officials in several states are dealing with a rise in the mosquito borne illness known as eastern equine encephalitis or EEE. The virus causes a potentially deadly brain infection and five cases have been recorded across New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Wisconsin and Vermont. According to the CDC, 30% of people who contract EEE will die from the virus.

Health officials warn that climate change will continue to accelerate the rate of mosquito borne viruses, as summers become longer and warmer conditions will continue to become ideal in many areas for mosquitos to thrive in. While the disease is rare, there is no vaccine against the virus and health officials in New England are urging the public to take precautionary measures similar to those in Oregon, including using bug spray, dressing in clothes that cover their arms and legs and getting rid of pools of standing water.