Mosquitoes found in West Monroe and Palermo have been confirmed to carry the Eastern Equine Enceic virus
In recent developments, the Oswego County Health Department has been notified by the state health department of two positive results for the Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus. Specifically, mosquito samples collected from West Monroe on August 14 and Palermo on August 12 have tested positive for the virus.
The West Monroe site, which was part of the target area that was sprayed on August 7, is one of the new locations with positive results for EEE this summer. The Palermo site, too, marks a new location with the virus this season.
Both Oswego and Madison counties have taken action to combat the spread of EEE and West Nile virus by spraying certain areas. It's important to note that aerial spraying is effective in reducing some mosquito populations but does not completely eradicate all mosquitoes or the diseases they carry, as stated by Vera Dunsmoor, Oswego County's public health director.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided information about the severity of EEE, no new statements about its stance on the virus were made in this context.
EEE is a rare but severe virus that can cause death in about 30% of people who develop severe EEE. Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioural changes, and drowsiness.
In general public health guidance, residents in affected areas are advised to minimise outdoor activity during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long sleeves, long pants, and use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535. Eliminating standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites, keeping windows and doors screened or closed, and staying informed through local health departments for updates and any additional precautions or warnings are also recommended.
For accurate and up-to-date advice specific to Oswego and Madison counties, residents should consult the New York State Department of Health or their local county health departments. No new information about the number of positive EEE cases or the spraying schedule was provided in this context.
It's crucial for residents to stay informed and follow public health guidelines to minimise the risk of contracting EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases.
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