Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Warnings About Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Recent Deaths from West Nile Virus

Health officials are warning about the dangers of mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus after three recent deaths in Wisconsin and Illinois.

• Wisconsin: The state Department of Health Services (DHS) reported two deaths and one hospitalization due to West Nile virus. These cases occurred in Outagamie, Fond du Lac, and Brown counties. The names of the individuals have not been released.
• Illinois: The first death of the year in Illinois from West Nile virus was reported in Lake County. The patient, an elderly resident, died after showing symptoms in mid-August. In 2023, Illinois had six West Nile virus-related deaths.

Dr. Sameer Vohra from the Illinois Department of Public Health stated, "This death is a reminder that West Nile virus is a serious risk, especially for older adults and those with weakened immune systems."

What is West Nile Virus?

• Overview: West Nile virus is a leading mosquito-borne illness in the continental U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There have been 289 reported cases in 2024.
• Transmission: Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds and then spread the virus to humans and other animals.
• Symptoms: Most people do not show symptoms. About 20% may experience fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, diarrhea, vomiting, or a rash. These symptoms usually resolve, but fatigue can last for weeks or months. Severe cases, which occur in about 1 in 150 people, can cause encephalitis (brain inflammation) or meningitis (inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord), and can be fatal.
• Prevention: To protect yourself, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, treat clothing and gear with insect repellent, and take steps to control mosquitoes by using window screens, air conditioning, and emptying containers with stagnant water.

Rising Concerns About Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

Health officials are also concerned about another mosquito-borne illness, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

• Recent Case: In New Hampshire, an individual died from a severe case of EEE. The patient had been hospitalized with a serious central nervous system infection before passing away.
• Affected Areas: EEE cases have been reported in Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Wisconsin. The U.S. averages 11 cases of EEE annually.
• Severity: Between 2003 and 2023, there were 196 cases of EEE, resulting in 176 hospitalizations and 79 deaths. In Massachusetts, 10 communities are at high risk for EEE, and mosquito spraying has been implemented to protect residents.
• Symptoms: EEE can range from a mild fever to severe neurological issues, including encephalitis. About 30% of people with encephalitis due to EEE die, and many survivors experience long-term neurological problems. There is no vaccine for humans, making prevention crucial.

For more information on West Nile virus and EEE, you can refer to the CDC's website and local health department updates.

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References:

• Wisconsin Department of Health Services
• Illinois Department of Public Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services