With fall approaching many may feel that the mosquitoes around this region are slowly disappearing. Unfortunately, this is not the case with the recent findings of Triple E (Eastern Equine Encephalitis) in many New England states. Today, two emus from Fitzwilliam NH and one horse from Derry NH tested positive for the virus. The virus is also becoming more common in humans with 5 reports just in Massachusetts. There have been no reported human cases in New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, or Maine this year. There has been only one human case reported in Vermont and tragically the man lost his fight a few weeks ago. With Triple E becoming more common I thought it would be a good time to talk about the virus and what steps can be taken to protect your self.
Eastern Equine Encephalitis is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. Severe cases of triple E begin with the sudden onset of headaches, high fever, chills, and vomiting. The illness may progress to disorientation, seizures, or coma. Triple E has a mortality rate of 33% and significant brain damage in most survivors. Although Triple E is uncommon, it is one of the most severe mosquito transmitted diseases in the world.
There is no way to keep Triple E away from your property unless your town does a mosquito spraying. The best way to keep your self safe is to use insect repellent, wear long sleeve shirts and pants, and by staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active. I the last one is hard to do but it is important to keep your family safe and away from this horrible disease.
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