Tragedy Strikes: New Hampshire Man Falls Victim to Deadly Mosquito-Borne Virus EEE

In a shocking turn of events, a 41-year-old man from Hampstead, New Hampshire, identified as Steven Perry, lost his life after contracting the rare and dangerous mosquito-borne virus known as eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). Perry's family revealed that he was healthy and had no underlying conditions, but his condition rapidly deteriorated due to severe central nervous system disease, leading to his untimely demise within a week. Perry was remembered by his family as an adventurous, upbeat, intelligent, and driven individual who cherished his family above all else. His sister described him as a funny and smart person who brought joy to those around him. The last reported human case of EEE in New Hampshire was in 2014, but this year has seen a resurgence of the virus, with one horse and seven mosquito batches testing positive for EEE. State epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan warned that the risk for mosquito-transmitted infections is statewide and urged everyone to take steps to prevent mosquito bites. Massachusetts is also grappling with EEE issues, with a man in his 80s from Oxford becoming the first person in the state diagnosed with EEE since 2020. In 2019, Massachusetts reported 12 human cases of EEE and six deaths, while in 2020, there were five human cases, including one death. To combat the outbreak, some Massachusetts counties have begun spraying for mosquitoes, with planes dispersing pesticides in Plymouth and nearby areas from 8 p. m. to 2 a. m. starting August 27. These treatments are human and pet safe. EEE can cause flu-like symptoms that include fever, chills, muscle aches, and joint pain. In severe cases, it can cause inflammation of the brain and membranes around the spinal cord, leading to death or life-long physical or mental impacts. Currently, there is no vaccine or antiviral treatment for EEE. The threat of EEE usually eases with the first frost, but until then, it is crucial to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites.