Mosquito Madness: New York's Deadly EEE Virus Outbreak

New York is in the grip of a mosquito-borne disease outbreak like no other. The eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus has spread rapidly across the state, with 15 counties now affected. This is a significant increase from the usual two or three counties that typically report EEE-positive mosquitoes each year. The virus, which has a mortality rate of between 30 and 50 percent, has already claimed one life in New York and has been declared an "imminent threat" by state health officials. Mosquitoes, once a nuisance, have become a serious threat to public health. State Health Commissioner James McDonald urges New Yorkers to take action to prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and removing free-standing water near their homes. Fall may have officially arrived, but mosquitoes will continue to be a problem until temperatures drop below freezing.The outbreak is not limited to New York. EEE cases have been reported in six other states, including Massachusetts, Vermont, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and New Hampshire. However, New York is experiencing an unusual surge in EEE-positive mosquitoes, with the virus spreading rapidly across the state. EEE is a rare but deadly disease. It is caused by a virus that is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus is particularly deadly in horses, with mortality rates reaching as high as 90 percent. In people, most bites from a mosquito carrying the EEE virus do not lead to the disease. However, for those who do develop EEE, the virus can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, and neurological problems. The CDC estimates that about 30 percent of people who develop severe EEE die from the disease. However, with small numbers of cases over time, the reported mortality rate can vary. There is no vaccine for EEE and no specific treatments.