Deadly Mosquito-Borne Disease Reports in New Hampshire
A person in the northeastern United States (US) state of New Hampshire has died after contracting the rare mosquito-borne eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus, health authorities announced Tuesday.
Infection Details
The patient, identified only as an adult from the town of Hampstead, was hospitalized with severe central nervous system disease and later succumbed to the illness, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) said in a statement.
History of Infections in New Hampshire
“The last reported human EEEV infection in New Hampshire was in 2014, when DHHS identified three human infections, including two fatalities,” the department said.
Rising Concerns about EEE
The new infection and death comes amid rising concerns from state officials across New England about the increasing risk of EEE, a threat believed to be exacerbated by climate change.
Concerns in Massachusetts
Earlier this month, Massachusetts announced the year’s first human case of EEE in the state — a man in his 80s — and officials have asked the public to observe voluntary outdoor curfews, closed public parks, and initiated aerial and ground spraying to control the mosquito population.
Symptoms and Outcomes
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of eastern equine encephalitis include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, behavioural changes and drowsiness.
It can also cause severe neurological disease such as inflammation of the brain and membranes around the spinal cord known as encephalitis and meningitis.
Approximately 30 per cent of those infected die and many survivors suffer ongoing physical or mental impacts. Individuals under 15 and over 50 are considered at higher risk.
Prevention and Treatment
There are currently no vaccines or treatments available for eastern equine encephalitis. However, health officials advise using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing outdoors, and eliminating standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
Climatic Factors
A 2023 report by Climate Central highlighted that the number of “mosquito days”— warm, humid conditions ideal for mosquito activity — has increased across much of the US over the past four decades due to human-caused climate change.
Conclusion
The rise in EEE cases across New England highlights the importance of mosquito-borne disease prevention and treatment. It is crucial for individuals to take measures to reduce their risk of infection and to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur.
FAQs
Q: What is eastern equine encephalitis?
A: Eastern equine encephalitis is a rare and deadly mosquito-borne disease that can cause severe neurological symptoms.
Q: Who is at higher risk for eastern equine encephalitis?
A: Individuals under 15 and over 50 are considered at higher risk for eastern equine encephalitis due to their age.
Q: Are there any vaccines or treatments available for eastern equine encephalitis?
A: No, there are currently no vaccines or treatments available for eastern equine encephalitis.
Q: How can I reduce my risk of contracting eastern equine encephalitis?
A: You can reduce your risk of contracting eastern equine encephalitis by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing outdoors, and eliminating standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.