What does the EEE virus mean?
EEE means eastern equine encephalitisIt is also called Triple E virus or Triple E mosquito virus. It is a rare infection and was first found in horses in Massachusetts in 1938, hence the name equine.
The virus has reportedly claimed 64 lives so far. Human cases of the infection, which have exceeded 100 so far, are mostly in the eastern states and the Gulf Coast of the United States.
The black-tailed mosquito is the carrier of the virus.
The EEE virus is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, particularly those of the Culiseta genus. These mosquitoes become infected with the virus after feeding on birds that harbour the pathogen. The EEE virus can also be transmitted to humans and other mammals through mosquito bites, causing serious health problems such as encephalitis.
While horses can also contract the virus, they are considered “dead-end” hosts, meaning they do not contribute to further transmission.
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Humans are even said to be final hosts for the virus, meaning they cannot transmit it to others as their blood does not have enough virus to be easily transmitted.
What are the symptoms of the EEE virus?
EEE virus infection can present with a variety of symptoms, usually beginning 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite. The virus often causes severe illness, particularly in those who develop encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain.
Initially, EEE symptoms may resemble other viral infections and may include high fever, headache, chills, and muscle aches. Patients may also experience fatigue, malaise, and a general feeling of being unwell. These symptoms may be mild or moderate and may not immediately indicate a serious infection.
As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may appear, including confusion, seizures, and significant neurological problems such as tremors, loss of coordination, and difficulty speaking or swallowing. In advanced cases, people may experience sudden onset of seizures, altered mental status, or coma. Symptoms can quickly become severe, and the infection can lead to permanent brain damage or death.
The 41-year-old man who died from the virus had symptoms of a severe central nervous system illness. He died within a week. According to CBS News, he was healthy and had no underlying illness.
There have been four cases of EEE virus identified in the US this year, according to CDC records.
“Approximately 30% of people who develop severe eastern equine encephalitis die”
The U.S. CDC states: Although rare, eastern equine encephalitis is very serious. About 30% of people who develop severe eastern equine encephalitis die, and many survivors suffer persistent neurological problems. Currently, there are no vaccines to prevent eastern equine encephalitis and no medications to treat it.