New York Resident died in eastern equine encephalitis
Today in New York residents have died of eastern equine encephalitis. One person has died in Ulster County after contracting the mosquito-borne Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus. New York Governor Cathy Hochul has declared the deadly virus an imminent threat to the public.
This is the first time since 2015 that a person has been infected with the EEE virus in the state. However, the victim's identity has not been released.
"EEE is a life-threatening disease, and there is no commercially available human vaccine for it," McDonald said. "Mosquitoes were once considered a nuisance, now they are a real threat."
These data may help to raise awareness about mosquito-borne diseases and highlight the importance of timely preventive measures.
This is the first time since 2015 that a person has been infected with the EEE virus in the state. However, the victim's identity has not been released.
Action by the Department of Health
The Ulster County Health Department is already investigating the incident. Governor Hochul said that various departments of the state have been given additional resources to take preventive measures, including increasing mosquito spray until the end of November.State-run outdoor areas will be put up with warning signs about the EEE virus and additional preventive measures will be provided for visitors.
Governor Hochul's promise
Governor Hochul said, "Keeping New Yorkers safe is our top priority. After the first human infection with the EEE virus was detected, we quickly took preventative action.With today's announcement, we are providing more resources to local departments. Our hearts go out to the families of the bereaved patients. Condolences."
Warning about EEE virus
New York State Health Commissioner James MacDonald warned that 15 counties, including Suffolk County, have been found to carry the EEE virus through mosquitoes.This is about a dozen more than the annual average. He also said that the risk of the virus will not decrease until the beginning of winter.
"EEE is a life-threatening disease, and there is no commercially available human vaccine for it," McDonald said. "Mosquitoes were once considered a nuisance, now they are a real threat."
Spread of EEE virus
States such as Massachusetts, Vermont, Wisconsin, New Jersey, and New Hampshire have also seen EEE infections, some of which have resulted in deaths.According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the EEE virus is transmitted through mosquito bites and, although extremely rare, can cause serious illness.
EEE Virus Symptoms and Risks
Most people infected with the EEE virus have no symptoms. However, in some cases, symptoms such as fever, muscle fatigue and headache may occur. Severe infection can lead to coma, and 33% of cases are fatal.These data may help to raise awareness about mosquito-borne diseases and highlight the importance of timely preventive measures.
