By A New Hampshire resident has died after contracting the eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus from mosquitoes, marking the state’s first case in a decade, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services announced Tuesday.
The adult resident from Hampstead had been hospitalized with severe central nervous system symptoms before succumbing to the infection. Health officials did not release further details about the individual.
Dr. Benjamin Chan, New Hampshire’s state epidemiologist, warned of an elevated risk for EEE infections in New England this year. “The risk will continue into the fall until there is a hard frost that kills the mosquitoes,” Chan said, urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.
EEE is a rare but severe mosquito-borne illness. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States averages about 11 human cases annually. The virus can cause flu-like symptoms and potentially lead to severe neurological disease, including inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes.
Dr. Richard Ellison, an immunologist and infectious disease specialist at University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, emphasized the gravity of EEE infections. “When it does cause an infection, it is very, very severe. Although it’s a very rare infection, we have no treatment for it,” Ellison stated. He noted that approximately one-third of those who develop encephalitis from the virus die, while survivors may face lifelong mental and physical disabilities.
New Hampshire health officials reported that the virus has also been detected in one horse and several mosquito batches in the state this summer. Cases have also been identified in neighboring Massachusetts and Vermont.
In response to the threat, several Massachusetts towns have advised residents to avoid outdoor activities at night. The state planned to begin mosquito spraying in some communities on Tuesday to prevent further spread of the virus.
Health authorities in affected states are urging the public to take preventive measures, including using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (early morning and evening), and removing standing water where mosquitoes breed.
The New Hampshire case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of mosquito-borne illnesses, even in regions where they are relatively rare. As climate patterns shift and habitat changes occur, public health officials stress the importance of ongoing vigilance and community-wide efforts to minimize mosquito populations and protect against bites.
