What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis?

EEE is a rare but severe and often fatal infection causing inflammation of the brain, transmitted by mosquitoes infected with EEE virus (EEEV).

EEEV can infect various animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

Who is at Risk?

Anyone can be infected, especially those living or visiting areas with EEEV.

Highest risk groups are individuals over 50 and under 15 years old.

How is EEEV Spread?

EEEV is maintained in a cycle between Culiseta melanura mosquitoes and birds. Transmission to mammals, including humans, occurs through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

EEE is not spread person-to-person or between animals and humans.

Symptoms and Onset

Symptoms appear 4-10 days after infection and may include headache, high fever, chills, vomiting, disorientation, seizures, encephalitis, and coma.

Severe cases can lead to death or brain damage, particularly in those over 50 or under 15.

Diagnosis

Diagnosed through clinical symptoms and laboratory tests of blood or spinal fluids to detect the virus or antibodies.

Treatment

No specific treatment exists; management focuses on supportive care, including hospitalization, respiratory support, intravenous fluids, and preventing secondary infections.

Prevention for Humans

No vaccine available. Prevent mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellents containing DEET, and reducing standing water around properties.

Follow insect repellent label instructions and avoid applying near eyes, nose, or mouth.

Prevention for Horses

Vaccines are available for horses.

Minimize mosquito exposure by frequently changing water in troughs, eliminating standing water, and consulting a veterinarian for more information.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which of the following statements about the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus is/are correct?

1. EEE virus is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites.
2. The virus is endemic to Europe and Asia but not found in the Americas.
3. The EEE virus can cause severe neurological illness in humans and horses.
4. There is an effective vaccine available for human protection against EEE virus.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

A. 1 and 3 only

B. 2 and 4 only

C. 1, 3, and 4 only

D. 1 only

Answer: A