The Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus, a rare but potentially fatal disease, has been detected in several mosquito pools across New Jersey, marking its first appearance in the state since 2019. The virus was found in Cape May, Hunterdon, Monmouth, Morris, and Union counties, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. In addition, one human case of EEE has been confirmed in the state.
EEE is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While many people infected with EEE show no symptoms, others can develop severe symptoms such as headache, high fever, chills, and vomiting. The disease can progress into encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, or meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Approximately 30% of people infected with EEE die, and most survivors suffer from ongoing neurologic problems, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The detection of EEE in New Jersey comes as the nation reports its first death from the virus this year. A 41-year-old man from New Hampshire, identified as Steven Perry, died from EEE, marking the first EEE death reported in the United States so far this year, according to NBC News.
Health officials are urging residents to take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, using insect repellent, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes can breed.