A person has died in the northeast United States from Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rare mosquito-borne disease, local health authorities announced on Tuesday.
The New Hampshire Department of Health identified the patient in a statement as an adult from the town of Hampstead, without providing further details about their gender or age. The person had been hospitalized due to a severe deterioration of the central nervous system and died as a result of the disease, the statement notes.
“The last known human infection with the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus in New Hampshire dates back to 2014,” when the Department of Health reported “three human infections, including two deaths,” it adds.
This death comes amidst growing concerns in the northeast United States about the risk of EEE spreading, which is said to be exacerbated by climate change.
Earlier this month, Massachusetts, which borders New Hampshire, announced the first EEE case of the year in that state involving an octogenarian.
According to the CDC, the main public health agency in the United States, symptoms of the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, behavioral changes, and drowsiness.
It can also cause significant neurological disorders.
Nearly 30% of infected individuals die from the disease, and many of those who survive suffer from physical or mental sequelae. Those under 15 and over 50 years old are considered at the highest risk.
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Health Concerns Rise Over Eastern Equine Encephalitis in the Northeastern U.S.
Recent developments in the northeastern United States have spotlighted Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rare mosquito-borne disease, after a fatal case was reported in New Hampshire. This tragic event has revived discussions around the risks associated with EEE, particularly amidst growing concerns over climate change and its potential impact on disease prevalence.
The New Hampshire Department of Health disclosed that an adult from Hampstead succumbed to EEE after experiencing severe deterioration of the central nervous system. This marks a significant moment, as the last reported human infection in the state occurred back in 2014, underscoring the infrequency yet seriousness of such cases.
As the summer months wane, mosquitoes continue to pose a risk, especially in regions like Massachusetts, which recently announced its first EEE case of the year in an elderly individual. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that approximately 30% of those infected with the EEE virus die, and many survivors face long-term health issues. Notably, children under 15 and adults over 50 are deemed the most vulnerable populations.
With the landscape of infectious diseases evolving, experts suggest that changes in climate patterns may exacerbate the spread of EEE and similar illnesses. Warmer temperatures and shifting rainfall can lead to enhanced mosquito breeding grounds, potentially increasing the risk of transmission.
As public health officials grapple with these challenges, the importance of community awareness and prevention strategies is paramount. Education on the symptoms—fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, alterations in behavior, and drowsiness—is crucial for early detection and intervention. The dynamics of mosquito-borne illnesses indicate a pressing need for ongoing research and vigilance to safeguard public health.