Eastern Equine Encephalitis, commonly referred to as EEE (Triple-E) is a mosquito-borne disease that is commonly transmitted to horses. But it can also be transmitted to people through mosquitoes. With horses in South Carolina being infected with EEE this summer, we know the virus is in the area. While rare, EEE in humans is very dangerous with as many as 1/3 of human cases ending in death and those who survive can experience long term disabilities as a result. While some infected with EEE never experience a single symptom or every know they have it, others will suffer greatly.
What is EEE?
EEE is a virus transmitted by mosquitoes. The virus is passed on to the mosquito from bird hosts that are known to live in freshwater hardwood swamps, making EEE more prevalent in marshy, swampy areas. Horses are the most common animal that is infected with EEE, and when that happens it is very deadly. 75-80% of horses who contract EEE will die from it, making the vaccination imperative for your horses long term health.
Symptoms of EEE
Although rare, EEE can be transmitted to humans as well as horses. With a mortality rate of 33%, it is one of the more dangerous mosquito-borne diseases out there. Symptoms of EEE can start with systemic illness that presents with chills, fever, depression, joint aches and muscle aches. If the EEE progresses to encephalitic illness symptoms can include headache, fever, restlessness, irritability, drowsiness, anorexia, diarrhea, vomiting, cyanosis, convulsions and coma. Many times survivors are left with disabling mental and physical side effects that can include permanent brain damage. There are no specific treatments for EEE, but if you do suspect you have it you should see a doctor immediately. Doctors can help control the symptoms and help lower your risk for long term disabilities and death.
Preventing EEE in Humans
While there is a vaccine for horses, there is no vaccine or specific treatment for EEE in humans. Because of this, it is imperative that you avoid mosquitoes and mosquito bites. The best way to do that is to eliminate mosquitoes in your backyard with help from Mosquito Squad of Greenville. Our traditional barrier spray eliminates mosquitoes on contact and continues to work for 21 days, eliminating up to 90% of the mosquitoes in your Greenville yard.
Contact Mosquito Squad of Greenville to learn more about eliminating 85-90% of the mosquitoes in your yard that could potentially be spreading EEE. You can reach us by phone at (864) 362-2013.