Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but severe viral infection that causes inflammation of the brain, often leading to death or long-term neurological issues. Transmitted by mosquitoes, EEE has a fatality rate of around 30% among those who develop symptoms. While the disease predominantly affects horses, humans can also be infected, though they are considered "dead-end" hosts, meaning they don't transmit the virus further. Recent news highlights concerns in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where new measures have been implemented after mosquitoes tested positive for EEE, marking the first human case in the state since 2020. In this episode, Jessica, dives into the virus's biology, transmission, symptoms, and the recent outbreak's context.

Citations:

https://www.cdc.gov/eastern-equine-encephalitis/php/transmission/index.html

https://cwhl.vet.cornell.edu/disease/eastern-equine-encephalitis

https://www.cdc.gov/eastern-equine-encephalitis/data-maps/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/eastern-equine-encephalitis/data-maps/current-year-data.html

Legal: The information provided in this episode of Transmissible is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or legal advice. While we strive for accuracy, the content discussed should not be used as a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or questions. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not represent the opinions of any affiliated institutions or organizations