An Ulster County person has died from the first human case of eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), a severe viral disease spread by infected mosquitoes, The case, the first death from EEE in the state since 2015, had been confirmed on September 20 by the state health department.
State resources including ongoing mosquito-spraying efforts are helping support EEE prevention response and activities by local health departments from September 30 to November 30. DOH, DEC and State Parks are raising awareness of EEE and other mosquito-transferred pathogens and steps to avoid mosquito bites, including using repellent, covering exposed areas of skin and avoiding outdoor activity at dawn and dusk.
The life-threatening mosquito-borne disease has no commercially available human vaccine. Mosquitoes, once a nuisance, are now a threat.
Precautions are recommended to reduce the risk of infection from EEE and other mosquito-borne illnesses. New Yorkers are urged to prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and removing freestanding water near their homes.
People over 50 and younger than 15 are at a higher risk of acquiring the virus.
For information about EEE, go to the DOH website.
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