And we thought the Zika virus was bad. Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but serious disease caused by a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Here are some key points about EEE:
Current Year Data (2024): As of August 20, 2024, there have been three reported cases of EEE in the U.S., with one case each in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Vermont.
Historical Data: The highest annual case report in the last decade was in 2019, with 38 infections.
Average Annual Cases: On average, the U.S. reports about 11 human cases of EEE annually.
EEE is most commonly transmitted in and around freshwater hardwood swamps in the Atlantic and Gulf Coast states and the Great Lakes region. People who work or participate in outdoor activities in these areas are at increased risk of infection.
Causes and Transmission
Virus: EEE is caused by the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV).
Transmission: The virus is spread to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Symptoms
Initial Symptoms: Fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and drowsiness.
Severe Symptoms: Seizures, behavioral changes, and coma. In severe cases, it can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord).
Severity and Prognosis
Mortality Rate: Approximately 30% of people with EEE die.
Long-term Effects: Survivors may experience long-term neurological problems, ranging from mild to severe intellectual disability, personality disorders, seizures, and paralysis.
Prevention
Mosquito Control: Reducing exposure to mosquitoes by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and staying indoors during peak mosquito activity times.
Environmental Measures: Eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.
Treatment
No Specific Treatment: There are no specific antiviral treatments for EEE. Supportive care, including rest, fluids, and pain relief, is the primary approach.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/eastern-equine-encephalitis/data-maps/current-year-data.html
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21187-eastern-equine-encephalitis-eee
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