The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) announced that mosquitoes from Lebanon have tested positive for the Eastern equine encephalitis virus.
These are the first mosquitoes in Maine to test positive for EEE since 2019, when a horse also tested positive. The last human case of EEE in Maine was in 2015. No known human cases of any locally acquired mosquito-borne illnesses have occurred in Maine this year.
From the Maine CDC:
Besides EEE, mosquitoes in Maine can also spread Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) and West Nile virus (WNV). These viruses spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. They cannot spread from human to human or from human to animal.
While some people may not exhibit symptoms from EEE, others may experience fever and flu-like illness. Severe symptoms can occur, including encephalitis (brain swelling), and meningitis. In some cases, EEE is fatal. If you experience any symptoms, call a health care provider right away.
Eastern Equine Encephalitis has been identified in mosquitoes in York County. Remember the best way to prevent a mosquito-borne disease is to prevent mosquito bites. Wear repellent and protective clothing.
Learn more: https://t.co/9suMZy2L8A pic.twitter.com/ghgJ0rBpGF— Maine CDC (@MEPublicHealth) September 20, 2023
