Summer is here, and along with it comes the threat of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Humans and horses are considered “dead-end hosts” for this virus, as they do not have enough of it in their blood to pass it on. EEE cases usually appear between July and September, with symptoms ranging from fever and headaches to brain swelling and even death in some cases. Dr. Naomi Forrester-Soto, an epidemiologist, warns that the disease is most severe in young children and the elderly, often resulting in life-changing brain damage.
Currently, there are no medicines or vaccines to treat EEE. Several human cases have been reported this summer in states like Vermont, New Jersey, and Wisconsin. Mosquitoes, birds, and other animals carrying the virus have tested positive in various states across the US, increasing the risk of human cases.
The last significant outbreak of EEE was in 2019, with Massachusetts reporting 12 human cases and six deaths. Dr. Forrester-Soto believes that recent weather patterns may be contributing to this year’s spike in cases. Alongside EEE, the US is also experiencing a surge in cases of West Nile Fever, another virus carried by mosquitoes.
Stay informed and protect yourself and your family from these threats by learning more about Global Health Security.
[ad_2]
Source link