N.H. man dies from eastern equine encephalitis
- A New Hampshire man died after testing positive for eastern equine encephalitis, a disease transmitted by mosquitoes.
- This case is the first reported in the state since 2014, with health officials warning of an elevated risk of infections this year.
- Preventing mosquito bites is essential, as there are no vaccines or treatments available for this serious viral disease.
A resident of Hampstead, New Hampshire, has died after testing positive for eastern equine encephalitis, a viral disease transmitted by mosquito bites. This case marks the first reported instance of the disease in the state since 2014, highlighting a concerning trend as health officials note an elevated risk of infections this year in New England. The state's health department reported that the man was hospitalized with severe neurological symptoms, indicating the disease's serious impact on the central nervous system. Dr. Benjamin Chan, a New Hampshire epidemiologist, emphasized the ongoing risk of eastern equine encephalitis as mosquito activity continues into the fall until a hard frost occurs. The disease is particularly dangerous, with a mortality rate of approximately 30% and potential long-term neurological issues for survivors. Symptoms can include fever, headaches, and seizures, making awareness and prevention crucial. In addition to the human case, the viral disease has also been detected in a horse and several mosquito batches this summer in New Hampshire. The Massachusetts Department of Health has identified at least ten communities at high or critical risk for the virus's spread, indicating a broader regional concern. Preventing mosquito bites remains the only effective defense against this disease, as there are currently no vaccines or treatments available. The worst outbreak in the U.S. occurred in 2019, underscoring the importance of vigilance and public health measures to mitigate the risks associated with eastern equine encephalitis.