Mosquitoes Spreading West Nile and EEE: Time to Break Out the Bug Spray!

Heads up, folks! State health officials are issuing a serious warning after recent mosquito testing revealed the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in several counties. This means mosquitoes in your neighborhood could be carrying these potentially deadly diseases, and it’s time to take action to protect yourself and your family.

What’s the Big Deal?

Both WNV and EEE are serious illnesses transmitted through mosquito bites. While most people infected with WNV won’t experience symptoms, some develop fever, headache, body aches, and a rash. EEE, on the other hand, is much more dangerous. It can cause encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, leading to severe neurological complications and even death.

Here’s what the data is telling us:

• Case Study: Last year, saw confirmed cases of WNV, with of those cases resulting in hospitalization.

• Case Study: reported EEE cases in , with a fatality rate.

Don’t Be a Mosquito Target!

Protect yourself and your loved ones from these serious diseases by following these simple steps:

• Use insect repellent: Apply EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Follow the directions carefully.

• Wear protective clothing: Long sleeves, pants, and socks can help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

• Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds: Empty any standing water in your yard, like birdbaths, flower pots, and buckets.

• Stay indoors at dusk and dawn: Mosquitoes are most active during these hours.

Remember, these diseases are preventable! By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the summer safely and avoid becoming a statistic.

Stay Informed:

• Check your local news for updates on mosquito activity and disease risks.

• Visit your state health department website for more information on WNV and EEE.

Stay safe, and let’s all work together to stop the spread of these dangerous diseases!