Mosquito-Borne Diseases Surge in East Tennessee and Western North Carolina
East Tennessee is experiencing an increase in cases of La Crosse encephalitis, a rare viral illness transmitted by infected mosquitoes, particularly affecting children. The disease often goes undiagnosed until severe symptoms occur, and there is currently no cure. Climate change is contributing to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, as warming temperatures and increased humidity lengthen the mosquito season. Mosquito surveillance and management efforts are limited, but prevention measures such as draining standing water and using insect repellents are crucial in reducing the risk of infection.
