New England warns of deadly mosquito disease risks at night

Health officials in New England are raising alarms about a rare but deadly mosquito-borne disease, Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), which has led to significant public health measures. A New Hampshire resident recently died from the disease, and there have been additional cases reported in Massachusetts and Vermont this summer. In response, local authorities are implementing changes to outdoor activities, including the cancellation of events like Oktoberfest in Burlington, Vermont, to minimize exposure to mosquitoes, particularly during peak activity hours at dusk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that EEE is serious, with a mortality rate of approximately 30% among those infected. Survivors may face long-term health issues, including mental and physical disabilities. The most vulnerable populations are individuals over 50 and those under 15 years old. Dr. Mark Levine, Vermont's health commissioner, emphasized the need for vigilance given the increased mosquito activity and the presence of the virus in the region. In Vermont, the health department is advising residents in high-risk areas to stay indoors at night until the first hard frost, which will help reduce mosquito populations. Massachusetts towns, including Plymouth, are closing parks and fields in the evenings, and several communities are urging residents to limit outdoor activities after dark. The lack of vaccines or treatments for EEE heightens the urgency of these precautions. Historical data shows that outbreaks can be severe, with multiple fatalities in previous years. As the summer progresses, health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and adapt public health strategies accordingly.