US Man Dies from Uncommon Illness After Mosquito Bite

Health authorities announced on Tuesday that a resident of New Hampshire, a northeastern US state, has died from the rare mosquito-borne eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus.

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reported that an adult from Hampstead, who was hospitalized with severe central nervous system disease, has died from the rare eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus.

The department noted that the last recorded human EEE infection in New Hampshire occurred in 2014, with three cases including two fatalities.

This new infection and death come as state officials across New England express growing concern about the increasing risk of EEE, which is thought to be worsened by climate change.

Massachusetts Reports First EEE Case of the Year; Officials Implement Measures

Earlier this month, Massachusetts reported its first human case of EEE for the year, involving an elderly man. In response, officials have urged voluntary outdoor curfews, closed public parks, and initiated both aerial and ground spraying to reduce the mosquito population.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists symptoms of EEE as fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes, and drowsiness.

It can also lead to serious neurological conditions, such as brain inflammation and inflammation of the membranes around the spinal cord, known as encephalitis and meningitis.

High Mortality Rate and Long-Term Effects of EEE

About 30% of those infected with the virus die, and many survivors experience long-term physical or mental effects. People under 15 and over 50 are at higher risk.

Currently, there are no vaccines or treatments available for EEE.

Health officials recommend using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing outdoors, and removing standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

A 2023 report by Climate Central noted that “mosquito days“—warm, humid conditions ideal for mosquito activity—have increased across much of the US over the past 40 years due to climate change.

Read the original article on: Science Alert

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