Health officials are warning of a rare but deadly mosquito-spread disease that is posing a serious threat in parts of New England. Eastern equine encephalitis, a virus that can cause symptoms such as vomiting and seizures, has infected individuals in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Vermont this summer. Tragically, a New Hampshire resident infected with the virus has passed away.
With the potential severity of the disease in mind, officials are taking proactive measures to protect the public. Changes are being made to event schedules and sports practices to minimize the risk of mosquito bites, particularly during dusk when mosquitos are most active.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 30% of individuals who contract eastern equine encephalitis do not survive, and survivors may experience long-term mental and physical disabilities. Those most at risk for severe illness are individuals over 50 years old and under 15.
Vermont's health commissioner, Dr. Mark Levine, emphasized the importance of taking the threat of eastern equine encephalitis seriously. In response to increased mosquito activity carrying the virus, residents in high-risk communities are advised to avoid outdoor activities at night until the first hard frost eliminates the mosquito population.
Several events have been canceled or rescheduled in light of the outbreak. Oktoberfest in Burlington, Vermont, and a weekly outdoor festival in the same city were among the events affected. In Massachusetts, towns like Plymouth are closing parks and fields in the evenings, while others are urging residents to stay indoors after dark.
Eastern equine encephalitis has no vaccines or specific treatment, making prevention crucial. While cases of the disease are rare in the U.S., they are most commonly reported in the eastern and Gulf Coast states. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and provide guidance to the public to mitigate the risk of infection.
