Mosquitoes in Multiple US Counties Test Positive for Rare EEE Virus

Health officials in Michigan have confirmed the presence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in mosquitoes collected in Bay County. While there have been no human cases reported so far this year, EEE is a dangerous mosquito-borne disease with a 33% fatality rate. People under 15 years old and over 50 are at the greatest risk. Symptoms include fever, chills, body aches, and can progress to severe encephalitis, seizures, and paralysis. Prevention measures include using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, maintaining window and door screening, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Horses are also vulnerable to EEE, with a 90% fatality rate, and vaccination and other protective measures are recommended.