Climate Change Fuels Spread of Deadly Mosquito-Borne Virus
Eastern equine encephalitis cases rise in the U.S. as warmer, wetter conditions boost mosquito populations.
- New Hampshire reports its first EEE death in a decade; other cases detected in Wisconsin, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
- EEE has a high mortality rate, with 30-40% of infected individuals dying from the disease.
- Climate change is extending the range of mosquitoes, increasing the risk of EEE in previously unaffected regions.
- Local health departments are implementing mosquito control measures, including insecticide spraying and public awareness campaigns.
- Preventative measures include wearing protective clothing and using effective mosquito repellents, especially during peak mosquito activity times.