A deadly virus called Horsefly Virus is rapidly spreading among horses, threatening the lives of horses
A deadly virus called Horsefly Virus is rapidly spreading among horses, threatening the lives of horses. But, the most worrying thing is that this virus can also infect humans through mosquitoes.
The deadly Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) infection, which is spread through mosquitoes, has been detected in New York's Hudson Valley and surrounding areas. According to the New York Post, an elderly Massachusetts man has been infected with the virus, which has already killed a horse in Orange County.
Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEE) rarely infects humans, but when it does, it can cause fatal problems. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), about 30% of people infected with the virus die and those who survive live with ongoing neurological issues. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, deaths usually occur within 2 to 10 days of symptom onset.
Unfortunately, there are no human vaccines to prevent the infection or any medicines to treat it. The best way to prevent the virus is to avoid mosquito bites, which can be done by wearing clothes that fully cover the body and minimizing exposure. However, according to the CDC, an average of only 11 human cases are reported annually in the United States. However, one needs to keep an eye on the symptoms and stay alert, as a Wooster man in his 80s was infected with the infection earlier this month in New England.
What is the Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus?
Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is a virus that spreads to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus attacks your immune system and can cause swelling in your brain. This can affect the way your brain and nervous system work. Certain types of mosquitoes become infected by biting birds infected with the EEE virus. These mosquitoes then bite humans and animals. Infected birds first become infected after being bitten by another infected mosquito.
Which age group is at higher risk?
People over 50 and under 15 are at maximum risk of EEE. Viral infections may peak in the summer months and affect those living near freshwater bodies, swamps, and coasts.
Symptoms of EEE
Not all people infected with the EEE virus show symptoms, but those who do have symptoms may experience chills, high fever, joint pains, and muscle aches. Severe symptoms may include confusion, diarrhea, headache, drowsiness, very high fever (over 104 degrees Fahrenheit), loss of appetite, and vomiting.
Preventive measures
* Use of mosquito repellent is recommended.
* Wear full-sleeved clothes.