MADISON, WIS – The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is urging the public to beware of mosquitoes because of the confirmed presence of eastern equine encephalitis in Wisconsin.
Health officials have confirmed that six horses in northwestern Wisconsin tested positive for EEE, which is spread to humans, horses and other animals by mosquito bites. Mosquitoes contract the EEE virus by feeding on infected birds.
As of Thursday, DHS has not confirmed any human cases in the state. Health officials said the disease is very rare in Wisconsin. Since 1964, only three cases have been reported in the state.
Although the virus can not be spread from person to person or directly between animals and humans, it can be transmitted by mosquito bites.
DHS officials said that many people who become infected do not become ill, but those who do do run the risk of developing encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain. Those who become ill typically experience a sudden fever, headache, chills and vomiting. More serious cases can cause disorientation, seizures, coma or death.
Roughly 30% of people who develop encephalitis from EEE die from their infections.
Health officials advise to limit the time outside at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are active, use insect repellent, remove stagnant water where possible.
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