New York Reports First Death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis

New York has reported its first death from Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) since 2015, marking a significant public health concern as the state’s health commissioner declared EEE an imminent threat. The virus, transmitted through mosquito bites, can cause severe brain infections, with a mortality rate of up to one-third among infected individuals. Following the confirmation of the first human case in Ulster County, Governor Kathy Hochul announced statewide actions to enhance public health responses, including increased resources for mosquito control. Residents are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites, as EEE poses risks particularly to those aged over 50 and under 15. The CDC notes that EEE is rare but serious, with only a few cases reported annually in the U.S. Meanwhile, the emergence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Oregon highlights the growing risks of disease-carrying insects as climate conditions change, underscoring the need for vigilant public health measures.