A statewide response to Eastern Equine Encephalitis in New York

The recent death in Ulster County marks the first confirmed case of EEE in New York since 2015 and is part of a broader trend of increasing concern regarding mosquito-borne diseases in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported only ten human cases of EEE nationwide as of mid-September, with the New York case being the second death from the virus this year. EEE has a high fatality rate, with approximately 30% of infected individuals succumbing to the disease, which can cause severe neurological symptoms. In response to this public health threat, Governor Hochul’s administration is enhancing local health departments’ capabilities to manage and mitigate the risks associated with EEE.

Public Health Measures

• Statewide Declaration: Governor Hochul’s declaration enables the allocation of additional resources to local health departments, enhancing their ability to respond effectively to the threat posed by EEE.

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Efforts are likely to include educating the public about prevention methods, such as reducing standing water where mosquitoes breed and using insect repellent.

Disease Overview

• Eastern Equine Encephalitis: EEE is transmitted primarily through mosquito bites, with symptoms that can include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. There are currently no vaccines or specific treatments available for the virus.

• Historical Context: The CDC notes that EEE cases are relatively rare, with only a handful reported each year, primarily in eastern and Gulf Coast states. The disease has historically seen fluctuations in case numbers, with significant outbreaks occurring in certain years.

The situation underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness as climate change and other factors potentially expand the habitats of disease-carrying mosquitoes, raising the stakes for public health across the United States.