A man from New Hampshire has died from eastern equine encephalitis EEE, a rare but severe mosquito-borne illness. Steven Perry, 41, was healthy and had no medical conditions before being hospitalized for severe brain disease and passing away within a week.
EEE is uncommon in the U.S., but it can be deadly, with about 30% of infected individuals dying from it. New Hampshire reported its last case in 2014, with three infections and two deaths that year. This year, the virus has been detected in one horse and seven mosquito batches in the state. Health officials urge residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
In Massachusetts, an elderly man has been diagnosed with EEE, the first case there since 2020. Cases have also been reported in New Jersey, Vermont, and Wisconsin this year.
EEE can cause long-term brain issues, with symptoms including fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, changes in behavior, and drowsiness. Since there are no vaccines or specific treatments for EEE, avoiding mosquito bites is crucial.
Mosquitoes are considered highly dangerous because they spread various diseases, including West Nile virus, which has infected 289 people across 33 states this year. Other mosquito-borne diseases include Jamestown Canyon virus, Zika virus, Chikungunya virus, dengue, and malaria.
To prevent mosquito bites, experts recommend:
Using bug spray with DEET or picaridin.
Wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs.
Eliminating standing water around your home, such as in bird baths, flower pots, and dog bowls.
Protecting pets from mosquito bites.
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