WASHINGTON, United States (AFP) — A tragic incident in the northeastern state of New Hampshire has underscored the growing threat posed by mosquito-borne diseases in the era of climate change. Health authorities announced on Tuesday that an adult from the town of Hampstead has died after contracting the rare but deadly eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus.
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reported that the patient was hospitalized with severe central nervous system disease before succumbing to the illness. This marks the first reported human infection of the EEE virus in New Hampshire since 2014, when the state recorded three cases, two of which were fatal.
“This tragic death reminds us of the very real threat posed by EEE,” DHHS said in a statement. “We urge the public to take all necessary precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.”
The resurgence of EEE in the region has drawn considerable concern from state officials across New England, a trend believed to be exacerbated by climate change. This month alone, Massachusetts confirmed its first human EEE case of the year — an octogenarian male. In response, authorities have implemented various preventive measures, including voluntary outdoor curfews, closure of public parks, and extensive aerial and ground spraying to manage the mosquito population.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describe the symptoms of eastern equine encephalitis as including fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes, and drowsiness. The virus can also lead to severe neurological conditions such as encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, and meningitis, the inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Approximately 30 percent of EEE cases result in death, and many survivors experience long-term physical or mental health issues. The CDC identifies individuals under the age of 15 and over the age of 50 as being at heightened risk.
Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments available for EEE, making prevention crucial. Health officials recommend using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing while outdoors, and eliminating standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
A 2023 report by Climate Central has highlighted the role of climate change in increasing mosquito activity. The report notes that the number of “mosquito days”—characterized by warm, humid conditions ideal for mosquito proliferation—has risen significantly across much of the United States over the last four decades due to human-driven climate change.
As climate change continues to alter weather patterns and create more favorable conditions for mosquitoes, the risk of diseases like EEE could grow, making public health measures and climate action increasingly vital.
For more information on how to protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses, visit the CDC’s official website.
