Office governors New York State Health Commissioner Kathy Hochul announced Monday, Sept. 23, the death of a patient in Ulster County who was diagnosed with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), the first such diagnosis in the area since 2015. State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued a declaration of an imminent risk to public health due to EEE.
USA: New York declares equine encephalitis an “imminent threat to the public”
The declaration allows state resources to be used to support EEE prevention. Mosquito spraying began on September 23 and will last until November 30 of this year. The departments are also tasked with increasing access to mosquito repellents in parks and campgrounds.
New Yorkers are being urged to follow guidelines to reduce their risk of mosquito-borne illnesses, including using repellents. “Keeping New Yorkers safe is my top priority,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul.
“This year, equine encephalitis is different. While we typically see these mosquitoes in two to three counties each year, this year they have spread to 15 counties and throughout New York State. There is no commercial vaccine available for humans for this life-threatening mosquito-borne disease and it should be taken seriously. Mosquitoes, once a nuisance, are now a menace,” said Dr. James McDonald.
What is Equine Encephalitis? This flu-like illness can even lead to death.
Eastern equine encephalitis presents similarly to the flu, in that infected individuals may experience fever, muscle and joint pain, and chills. However, the disease can also cause serious neurological disease. “About one-third of all people who develop EEEV encephalitis die from the infection, and many more experience lifelong physical or psychological effects,” the Department of Health reported. For more information about the virus in the United States, see:'People are panicking'. American dies after being bitten by a mosquito. Curfew approved“.