The Onondaga Health Department announces the first human case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus. The Individual is currently in critical condition. 

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Indu Gupta, MD, MPH, was notified late yesterday by the New York State Department of Health,  that a Town of Salina adult resident has been diagnosed with Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE) infection.  Dr. Gupta explained, “This is the first known human case of EEE in Onondaga County this year.  The individual is currently hospitalized and is in critical condition. To protect the privacy of this patient and of the family, additional details are not being shared with the public.”

Although EEE is rare in humans, it is a very serious viral infection. The Dr. goes on to say:

The virus can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain. Initial symptoms, which usually start 4-10 days after the bite, can include fever, headache, and vomiting. Illness can then progress to altered mental status, confusion, seizures, coma, and even death. The greatest risk for infection with this virus is for people, especially the very young and elderly, who spend a lot of time outdoors.

It is critical that the public continue to take measures to minimize being bitten by mosquitoes until the first hard frost of fall.

 

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