Is There Another Mosquito Virus to Worry About?

While typically talk of mosquitos and viruses involves familiar names Zika and West Nile, a new virus is wreaking havoc in parts of the U.S. Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, and while rare, it can be very serious. About a third of infected patients die, often within 10 days of the onset of symptoms. Others may have lingering neurological issues.

EEE cases have been reported in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Vermont and Wisconsin, and the first EEE-related death occurred in New Hampshire. Several towns in Massachusetts closed public parks from dusk until down to minimize people being out when mosquitoes are most active.

You may not experience any symptoms with this virus, but if you do, they’re likely to be typical of other viruses – fever, chills, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea or fatigue. In more serious cases, there could be encephalitis (brain inflammation) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord).

While there haven’t been any reported EEE cases in Louisiana yet, the state is among the 33 in the U.S. with West Nile cases this year. With those cases also up this year, taking steps to avoid mosquito bites is key:

• Avoid scented skin products
• Cover up with loose-fitting clothing if outside when mosquitos are out
• Use insect repellent
• Eliminate standing water