A healthy 41-year-old man in New Hampshire has tragically passed away after contracting eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), a rare and serious virus transmitted by mosquitoes. The man, identified as Steven Perry, tested positive for EEE and was hospitalized with severe central nervous system disease. Despite being healthy with no underlying medical conditions, Perry’s disease progressed rapidly, and he passed away at Massachusetts General Hospital. This marks the first human case of EEE in New Hampshire in 10 years. EEE cases have also been reported in other states including Massachusetts, Vermont, Wisconsin, and New Jersey. So far in 2024, five confirmed human cases of EEE have been reported in the United States, all of the more severe neuroinvasive form of the disease.
EEE typically presents with symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, and joint pain, with severe cases leading to brain or spinal cord swelling. Around 30% of individuals infected with EEE will sadly die, while survivors often experience lasting mental and physical issues. The virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, with most cases reported between July and September, peaking in August. As peak mosquito season approaches, health officials warn of an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases. In New England, elevated risk for EEE infections has been identified due to positive mosquito samples, prompting extra precautions to be taken to prevent further cases.
In response to the recent case of EEE in a man in his 80s in Massachusetts, several communities have enacted measures such as mosquito control spraying, voluntary curfews, and nighttime park closures. Alongside EEE, there has also been a rise in West Nile virus activity in the U.S., with 289 reported cases in 33 states as of August 27. There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for EEE, making prevention of mosquito bites key to avoiding infection. The CDC recommends using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and limiting outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours to reduce the risk of contracting EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases.
EEE is a serious health concern, with the potential to cause severe illness and even death in those infected. It is important for individuals living in areas where EEE is prevalent to take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of exposure. As cases of EEE and other mosquito-borne viruses continue to be reported, ongoing vigilance and proactive measures are essential to safeguard public health. The tragic death of Steven Perry serves as a reminder of the urgency of addressing and preventing vector-borne diseases, highlighting the importance of public health interventions and community awareness in combating the spread of EEE and similar viruses.
