WASHINGTON COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISES OF PROTECTION METHODS FROM AND RISKS OF THE EEE VIRUS

WASHINGTON COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISES OF PROTECTION METHODS FROM AND RISKS OF THE EEE VIRUS

FOR DISTRIBUTION - SENT 08/19/2024 @ 7:00 PM

Washington County Public Health is advising residents to take personal protective measures to avoid mosquito bites, following confirmation of the presence of the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus in a horse in northern Washington County. There are currently no human cases in Washington County.

In response, Washington County Public Health is enhancing surveillance and educating the members of our community about mosquito bite prevention and EEE. There is no vaccine against the EEE virus for people, mosquito bite prevention is the best way to protect from infection. All community members are encouraged to take the following measures to fight mosquito bites:

• Use and apply mosquito repellent according to label instructions. Use this EPA search tool to help you choose the repellent product that is right for you. Find the Repellent that is Right for You | US EPA
• Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt if you are outdoors for long periods.
• Limit exposure to mosquitos when they are most active, between dusk and dawn.
• Mosquito proof your home. Replace or repair broken window screens and get rid of standing water where mosquitos may breed. Change water in birdbaths and horse troughs at least two times a week.
• Larvicide can be used according to label directions on areas where water collects and cannot be removed or drained - see guidance 13035.pdf (ny.gov) .

The EEE virus can spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitos, an infected horse cannot pass the EEE virus to other animals or people. Although rare, EEE is very serious and the virus can cause life threatening complications. Encephalitis infections like EEE include symptoms of sudden high fever, muscle pains, and a headache of increasing severity. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

A vaccine is available to protect horses from EEE infection. Since horses are vulnerable to the EEE virus, equine owners are encouraged to vaccinate their horses annually.

At this time, Washington County will not be spraying for mosquitos, however, Public Health will be closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with the New York State Department of Health.