IN 2014, three people in the Granite State were infected with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), and two of them died. We haven’t had any cases since then. But the NH Department of Public Health just announced a 2024 death from EEE.
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Public Health Services (DPHS) has identified an adult from Hampstead, New Hampshire who tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV) infection, was hospitalized due to severe central nervous system disease, and has passed away due to their illness. DHHS offers our sympathies to the individual’s family and friends.
EEEV is a rare but serious disease transmitted to people by infected mosquitos. The last reported human EEEV infection in New Hampshire was in 2014, when DHHS identified three human infections, including two fatalities. In addition to the person with EEEV infection announced today, EEEV has been detected in one horse and seven mosquito batches in New Hampshire so far this summer. EEEV has also been detected in neighboring states, including in Massachusetts (one person, one horse, and 69 mosquito samples) and Vermont (one person and 47 mosquito samples).
NH DHHS has a risk map, but other than everyday suggestions to avoid bites, it has happily little else to say.
Right Overreacts to Stories About Massachusetts Town’s Response to EEE
arbomap-2024Granite Staters can prevent EEEV infection by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites, including using effective mosquito repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants when outside, and avoiding outdoor activities in the early morning and evening hours when mosquitos are most active. It is also important for residents to remove standing water from around their homes to reduce mosquito populations and ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens without holes
I did not find a story about this on WMUR, but the Union Leader has one, and any search engine will produce a pile of links to the New Hampshire death. It is, of course, sad and tragic, and we hope no one else finds themselves infected or on death’s door, but at least a few folks will be thinking about “the Response,” and with good reason. Overreacting to public health situations is a cause for concern. The Governor’s office just released a (supposedly) third-party review of its handling of the COVID-19 crisis. Strong leadership and sound judgment, it says. We must agree to disagree, but at least we can bring receipts.
There is nothing about the EEE death on the Governor’s webpage.