Eastern Equine Encephalitis Detected In Portsmouth [NEWS]

(Portsmouth, NH) -  The Portsmouth Health Department received a report of a positive result for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in a batch of mosquitoes trapped in Portsmouth on September 9, 2014.  The species testing positive is Culiseta Melanura, which feeds primarily on birds, but will intermittently bite humans.EEE is a rare but dangerous disease transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.  EEE symptoms include flu-like symptoms, fever, headache, stiff neck and sore throat.  Severe cases can lead to encephalitis with significant brain damage or death.  There is no human vaccine for EEE or specific treatment once a person is infected.

Portsmouth has a mosquito control program which had already been implemented prior to this test result.  Street spaying will continue as scheduled and treatment of parks, playgrounds and athletic fields began last week.  However, the best protection is self-protection by protecting yourself and your family from being bitten.

The proper use of insect repellent and protective clothing will help protect against mosquito bites.  When outdoors, use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin and/or clothing.  Adults should apply repellent to young children. Always follow package directions and be sure to wash hands after application and before eating.

Wear long sleeves and pants when weather permits.

For further information please visit the City of Portsmouth Health Department website at http://www.cityofportsmouth.com/health/index.htm or contact Kim McNamara, Health Officer at (603) 610-7273.  Additional information can also be found at the State of New Hampshire DHHS website:  http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/DPHS/cdcs/arboviral/index.htm and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website:  http://www.cdc.gov/easternequineencephalitis