New York Declares Public Health Threat from EEE

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) a public health threat following the state's first reported death from the virus since 2015. The fatal case, confirmed in Ulster County on September 20, is part of a worrying trend, with 10 human cases reported across six states this year according to the CDC. EEE, a rare mosquito-borne illness, has a mortality rate of approximately 30% among those who develop severe symptoms, with no available vaccine. In response, the state is allocating resources for mosquito control, including increased access to repellents in public areas and potential spraying through November 30. Health officials are urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, especially as the virus has also been detected in horses in New York. The declaration aims to bolster local health departments' efforts to combat this serious public health issue.