Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) -- Background
The following is a brief introduction. For links to further information, see the Materials Page.
What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)?
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but serious disease caused by the Eastern equine encephalitis virus. Human cases of EEE in the U.S. were confirmed as early as 1964. EEE was first identified in Maine in 2005. In 2005, several human deaths were recorded in New Hampshire due to EEE and two horses in Maine died of EEE. There have been no confirmed human cases of EEE in Maine. If a mosquito infected with the virus bites a horse or human, the animal or person can become sick. The virus that causes EEE is spread only by mosquitoes. People and horses with EEE do not spread the disease.
The first signs of EEE may include high fever (103º F - 106º F), stiff neck, headache, lack of energy, and inflammation of the brain. The disease gets worse quickly and some patients may go into a coma within a week. People younger than 15 years and older than 50 years have the highest risk of severe disease. The highest risk of getting infected with EEE comes during the summer and early fall.
What parts of the State are affected by EEE? Is it spreading further?
The Maine Bureau of Health has developed a surveillance system to track the emergency of EEE in Maine among birds, mosquitoes, and people. By tracking the apread of the virus, prevention efforts can be better focused to help educate the public regarding how to protect themselves and their families against the disease. In addition, other state agencies, health professionals, and non-governmental grpus have worked together for the last several years to increase awareness and promote preventative measures.
