Eastern Equine Encephalitis Spreads to Sudbury, Vermont, Prompting Health Precautions

Sudbury, Vermont, has become the fifth town in the state to be designated "high risk" for Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV), as the mosquito-borne disease continues to spread in New England. Health officials urge residents to take precautions to avoid exposure to EEEV, which can be deadly if left untreated.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but serious and potentially fatal disease that is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus is found in the saliva of the mosquito and can cause inflammation of the brain, known as encephalitis.

EEE is primarily found in the eastern and Gulf Coast states of the United States, but cases have also been reported in other regions, including New England and Wisconsin. The disease is most commonly seen during the summer months when mosquitoes are most active.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis Spreads to Sudbury, Vermont, Prompting Health Precautions

The symptoms of EEE can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In mild cases, symptoms may include fever, headache, and muscle aches. In more severe cases, symptoms can progress to include stiff neck, seizures, behavioral changes, and drowsiness.

Anyone who lives in or travels to an area where EEE is present is at risk for infection. However, certain factors can increase the risk, such as:

Eastern Equine Encephalitis Spreads to Sudbury, Vermont, Prompting Health Precautions

* Spending time outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity (dusk and dawn)

* Not using insect repellent

Eastern Equine Encephalitis Spreads to Sudbury, Vermont, Prompting Health Precautions

* Not wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors

* Not treating clothing and gear with permethrin, an insecticide that kills or repels mosquitoes

There is no vaccine available to prevent EEE, so it is important to take precautions to avoid exposure to infected mosquitoes. These precautions include:

* Using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus

* Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors

* Treating clothing and gear with permethrin

* Avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity

* Installing or repairing window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes

There is no specific treatment for EEE. Treatment focuses on supportive care, such as:

* Intravenous fluids

* Medications to reduce fever and swelling

* Mechanical ventilation if necessary

* Hospitalization for monitoring and supportive care

The prognosis for EEE depends on the severity of the infection. Approximately 30% of people who develop EEE die from the disease. Survivors may have long-term neurological problems, such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and seizures.

Sudbury, Vermont, has been added to the state's list of towns at "high risk" for EEEV, joining Burlington, Alburgh, Colchester, and Swanton. Health officials in Vermont are urging residents to take precautions to avoid exposure to EEEV, such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity.