A New York resident has died after being diagnosed with the state’s first confirmed case of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) in nearly a decade, according to authorities. The individual, who has not been identified, was diagnosed on September 20 by the Health Department’s Wadsworth Center, Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Monday.
New York department of health
This marks the first confirmed case of EEE in New York since 2015, and the Ulster County case is now under investigation by local health officials. In response, State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald declared an imminent public health threat, freeing up state resources to bolster EEE prevention efforts. These efforts include extended mosquito spraying through November 30, as well as enhanced public awareness campaigns.
Several state agencies, such as the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Parks Department, have expanded access to mosquito repellents at public facilities, including parks and trailheads. Increased signage warning of EEE risks will also be posted, and state officials are advising that park hours and camping availability may be limited during peak mosquito activity.
Governor Hochul expressed her sympathies to the victim’s family and emphasized the need for swift action. “Following the first confirmed human case of EEE, my administration took statewide action to help protect communities — and with today’s declaration, we’re making more state resources available to local departments to support their public health response,” Hochul stated.
EEE, though rare, is a serious disease spread by infected mosquitoes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While many infected individuals do not experience symptoms, severe cases can lead to symptoms such as headache, high fever, chills, and vomiting. About 30% of severe EEE cases are fatal, and survivors often suffer from long-term neurological damage.
“Eastern equine encephalitis is different this year,” said Health Commissioner Dr. McDonald. “This mosquito-borne disease, which has no human vaccine, must be taken seriously.” He noted that while EEE-carrying mosquitoes are typically seen in two or three counties annually, this year they have been detected in 15 counties across the state. Mosquitoes will remain a threat until there are several consecutive nights of freezing temperatures, meaning the risk could persist through winter.
At least 10 cases of EEE have been confirmed in the U.S. this year, including a fatal case in New Hampshire. In New York, several horses have also tested positive for the virus across various counties. A mosquito sample from Long Island’s Connetquot River State Park Preserve tested positive for EEE in late August.
AP
Health experts continue to urge vigilance as the situation develops, emphasizing the need for protective measures against mosquito bites.