New York officials declared a public health threat following the state’s first death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in nearly a decade. Learn how to protect yourself from this rare but deadly mosquito-borne virus.
New York Declares ‘Imminent Threat’ After First Death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis in a Decade
New York officials have declared an “imminent threat” to public health following the death of a resident from Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rare but deadly mosquito-borne illness. This is the state’s first confirmed human case of EEE since 2015.
The victim, a resident of Ulster County, passed away earlier this month, prompting the state to ramp up mosquito-control efforts and public health advisories.
“We’ve been informed this patient has passed away from EEE, and we extend our deepest sympathies to their family,” New York Governor Kathy Hochul stated.
Eastern equine encephalitis is a viral infection spread by infected mosquitoes, with a mortality rate of around 30%. Those who survive often suffer long-term neurological complications. There are no vaccines or specific treatments for the virus.
State Health Response: New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued an alert, stating that EEE cases have been identified in 15 counties across the state this year, significantly more than the typical two to three counties. In response, the state is extending mosquito spraying efforts through the end of November and increasing public access to insect repellent at parks and campgrounds.
Governor Hochul has activated multiple agencies to increase awareness, provide protective resources, and consider limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (dusk to dawn).
Risk Beyond New York: EEE has been reported in several other states, including Massachusetts, Vermont, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and New Hampshire. Nationally, at least 11 human cases have been confirmed this year, with the virus being particularly prevalent in freshwater swamp regions.
Protect Yourself: Health officials are urging residents to wear long-sleeved clothing, use insect repellent, and eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed. Although fall has arrived, mosquitoes will remain active until freezing temperatures occur for several consecutive days.
References:
- New York declares ‘imminent threat’ after first death from eastern equine encephalitis in decade – Independent.co.uk – (Accessed on Sep 25, 2024)
- New York’s First Human Case Of Mosquito-Borne EEE This Year Ends In Patient Death—What To Know – Forbes – (Accessed on Sep 25, 2024)
- New York Resident Dies of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Infection – New York Times – (Accessed on Sep 25, 2024)
- York Sees First Death From Mosquito-Borne EEE Virus—How to Protect Yourself – Time.com – (Accessed on Sep 25, 2024)
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