Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is a serious infection that causes encephalitis or severe brain inflammation. It is spread through the bite of a mosquito infected with the EEE virus or EEEV. Eastern equine encephalitis cannot be transmitted from person to person.
The EEE virus can affect the way the brain and nerves function, and potentially lead to long-term or life-threatening complications.
Some people infected with EEEV may not present with any symptoms; however, if symptoms appear, they could range from mild to severe and include:
- Fever
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- High fever
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness
The symptoms of an EEE infection typically appear 4-10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
An EEE infection may progress into more serious complications such as:
- Seizures
- Coma
- Behavioral changes
- Paralysis
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a third of the people who develop severe EEE die and those who survive may have some degree of brain damage; therefore, it is important that you see a doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms.
Your doctor may diagnose EEE based on signs and symptoms, travel history (traveling to areas where the EEE virus is prevalent), mosquito exposure, and blood or spinal lab tests. Treatment typically involves getting enough fluids, rest, or taking over-the-counter medications to relieve pain. Patients may require hospitalization in severe cases.
Eastern equine encephalitis can be prevented by protecting yourself from mosquito bites. The CDC recommends using insect repellant, wearing protective clothing, and taking steps to control mosquitos indoors and outdoors.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.