Health officials have issued an alert for certain areas of New York State as they have detected a rare and hazardous virus in mosquitoes.
The hot and sticky summer weather has created the ideal environment for bugs and mosquitoes to thrive. Unfortunately, not only are these pesky insects a nuisance to have around during outdoor gatherings, but they also pose a risk of carrying two different types of viruses.
Residents of Onondaga County are being cautioned by officials about the recent discovery of both West Nile and EEEV.
EEEV, short for Eastern equine encephalitis, is a rare but serious disease, as per the Center For Disease Control (CDC). Currently, there are no vaccines available to prevent this disease.
Eastern equine encephalitis is a severe illness, although it is infrequent. Individuals infected with eastern equine encephalitis have a mortality rate of around 30%, and many of those who survive are left with long-term neurological problems. Symptoms of the disease may include fever, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes, and drowsiness.
As the kids gear up to return to school, there are plenty of outdoor festivities, camping trips, and gatherings on the horizon. It’s crucial to take precautions against mosquito bites and eliminate stagnant water from your surroundings. You’d be amazed at how easily rainwater can accumulate in various nooks and crannies, creating a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Don’t overlook items such as old tires, buckets, and overturned garbage can lids, all of which can collect water and promote mosquito breeding. Keep your family safe by taking these simple measures.