Eastern equine encephalitis in the USA: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont & Wisconsin

30 Aug 2024

On 27 August 2024, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reported a fatal case of eastern equine encephalitis (EEE).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), EEE has also occurred in the States of Massachusetts, Vermont and Wisconsin in 2024.

EEE is caused by an virus transmitted by mosquito bite, mainly in marshy and forested areas of the eastern United States. It is uncommon but some years see increased case numbers.

Symptoms of EEE include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes and drowsiness.

EEE can be fatal and there is no specific cure for the infection.

Advice for Travellers

If you are travelling to an affected area, you are potentially at risk of eastern equine encephalitis and should be aware of this infection.

• You can protect yourself by avoiding mosquito bites at all times.

If you develop a high temperature (fever) or other symptoms either during or after travelling to an affected area, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible and give details of your recent travel history.