One Man Dead As LETHAL Mosquito-Borne Encephalitis Virus Hits New Hampshire!
A New Hampshire resident has died from the rare and severe eastern equine encephalitis virus, prompting health officials to urge precautions. š #News #ConcordNH #NewHampshire #Virus
CONCORD, NH – A New Hampshire resident has died after contracting the eastern equine encephalitis virus, a serious mosquito-borne illness, as reported by state health officials.
The individual, from Hampstead, marks the first case of this virus in New Hampshire in the past decade, according to the stateās Department of Health and Human Services. The patient, identified only as an adult, was hospitalized due to severe neurological symptoms and later passed away.
RELATED: Deadly Virus in Massachusetts: State Spraying to Combat Fatal Mosquito-Borne Disease!
Eastern equine encephalitis is a rare but highly dangerous virus. About one-third of those who develop encephalitis from the infection do not survive, and those who do often face significant long-term disabilities.
There is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available. The illness initially presents with flu-like symptoms but can rapidly progress to severe neurological complications, including inflammation of the brain.
Health experts emphasize the severity of the infection, noting that while the virus is uncommon, it is exceptionally serious when it occurs. Without effective treatments, supportive care is the only option, but the virus can still be fatal.
The U.S. typically sees around 11 cases of eastern equine encephalitis each year. In New Hampshire, previous cases in 2014 resulted in two deaths out of three infections.
This summer, the virus has also been found in a horse and multiple mosquito samples in New Hampshire. There have been additional reports of infections in Massachusetts and Vermont. Mosquitoes carrying the virus are often found in areas that were formerly swamps, even if these areas have since been developed.
Public health officials are advising people to take preventive measures against mosquito bites.
This includes using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity times in the early morning and evening. It is also crucial to eliminate standing water, which serves as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
There is concern about an increased risk of eastern equine encephalitis infections in New England this year, given the positive mosquito samples detected.
This risk is expected to continue until the first hard frost, which will significantly reduce mosquito populations. Residents are encouraged to take all necessary precautions when spending time outdoors.
In Massachusetts, several towns have recommended that residents stay indoors at night to reduce the risk of contracting the virus.
In response, authorities have started mosquito control measures, including spraying in certain areas, to curb the spread of the infection. Let us know in the comments section below how you are staying safe from the encephalitis virus!
Written by JackAndKitty.com World News Reporter Todd Johnson, with additional reporting by Jack and Kitty Norton.
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