An outbreak of eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), a rare but serious mosquito-borne illness, is sweeping through the northeastern U.S., causing communities to shut down outdoor activities. With at least one reported death and several severe cases, the outbreak is raising public health concerns.

EEE, which is transmitted by mosquito bites, has a high mortality rate, with about 30% of severe cases resulting in death. Survivors may experience long-term neurological complications such as seizures, paralysis, and intellectual disabilities.

Symptoms and Risks:

While many people infected with EEE may show no symptoms, those with mild cases may experience chills, fever, joint pain, and muscle aches. Severe infections can lead to confusion, vomiting, high fever, seizures, and even coma. EEE can progress quickly, sometimes within days, and there is no specific antiviral treatment available. The disease is most common in late spring through early fall near bodies of water and in areas such as freshwater hardwood swamps.

How to Stay Safe:

With no human vaccine currently available, preventing mosquito bites is the best way to protect yourself from EEE. Here are the key steps you can take:

1. Use Insect Repellent:
   Apply an EPA-registered repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing. Follow the label instructions for safe application.
2. Wear Protective Clothing:
   When outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks. Consider tucking your shirt into your pants and your pants into your socks for extra protection.
3. Treat Clothing and Gear:
   Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear, which repel and kill mosquitoes. Be sure to follow product instructions carefully.

Mosquito Control Measures:

1. Eliminate Standing Water:
   Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Get rid of sources of standing water around your home, such as old tires, buckets, clogged gutters, and flower pots.
2. Use Screens on Windows and Doors:
   Make sure your windows and doors are fitted with screens in good repair to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
3. Consider Mosquito Nets:
   If you’re in areas with high mosquito activity, use insecticide-treated mosquito nets when sleeping outdoors.

Additional Precautions:

• Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Activity:
  Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. Limit outdoor activities during these times, particularly in areas where EEE has been reported.
• Stay Informed:
  Monitor local health department reports and CDC updates to stay aware of outbreaks in your area.
• Vaccinate Horses:
  If you own horses, make sure they are vaccinated against equine encephalitis. This protects them and helps reduce the overall risk of transmission.

With no vaccine for humans, taking these preventive measures is crucial to avoiding EEE and protecting yourself and your family during mosquito season. Stay vigilant and informed as the outbreak continues.

Visit the CDC website or your local health department for more information on current outbreaks and safety recommendations. Stay safe!