A case of eastern equine encephalitis has been found in a mosquito in Barry County. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson Lynn Sutfin tells WSJM News EEE is typically spread by mosquitoes and has a human fatality rate of 33%.
“Signs of EEE include a sudden onset of fever, chills, body and joint aches, and then it can develop into severe encephalitis, resulting in headache, disorientation, tremors, seizures and paralysis,” Sutfin said. “It’s also possible that permanent brain damage, coma, and death can occur.”
The disease was previously found in a horse this year in Livingston County, but this is the first case found in a mosquito. Sutfin says to avoid EEE, you need to avoid mosquitoes.
“We tend to see cases of EEE in the southwest area of Michigan, although we have seen it in various parts of the state. So it is not just confined to that area.”
Sutfin advises everyone to get rid of excess standing water on their property, wear bug repellant with DEET when outdoors, and wear long pants and sleeves. Berrien County had several cases of EEE two years ago. You can find out more at Michigan.gov/EmergingDiseases.
