EEE, West Nile virus: The symptoms and how to protect yourself
EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Mosquito season lasts all the way through summer and fall, and with it comes the threat of diseases like eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus.
While human cases aren't overly common, the risk is there, so it's important to take steps to protect yourself, your family and your pets.
NEW: RI announces first case of EEE since 2019
In this article: Mosquito prevention tips | EEE symptoms | West Nile symptoms | Mosquito map
Preventing mosquito bites
When it comes to avoiding mosquito-borne illnesses, the solution is simple: try not to get bitten.
Below are tips from the R.I. Department of Environmental Management (DEM) to protect against mosquito bites:
Limit time outside during peak hours
If possible, avoid outdoor activities from dusk until dawn
Sports leagues and other groups are advised to practice "smart scheduling" by moving early morning or evening activities indoors or to a different time of day
Don't leave your pets outside during those hours
RELATED: High school soccer game postponed due to EEE risk
When outdoors, protect yourself
Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants
Use bug repellant
What's the best type of bug spray to use?
Put up mosquito netting, especially over playpens and baby carriages
Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds
Remove standing water from wheelbarrows, pots, buckets and other containers
Clean out your gutters so water doesn't build up
Make sure your pool and pool cover are well maintained
Clean and change the water in birdbaths at least once a week
Make sure all windows have screens
Fix those that are loose or have holes
EEE symptoms
EEE is a rare, but very serious disease. About a third of people who contract the virus die, and some survivors have lasting neurological issues. However, many people who are exposed don't develop symptoms at all.
Here are the signs and symptoms to look for, according to the CDC:
Fever
Headache
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Seizures
Behavioral changes
Drowsiness
Coma
The symptoms develop 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
There is no vaccine or specific treatment for EEE. If you believe that you or someone you know may be infected, call your doctor.
West Nile virus symptoms
West Nile virus is much more prevalent than EEE. In fact, it's the leading cause of mosquito-borne illness in the United States. However, like EEE, most people won't show any symptoms.
Here are the signs and symptoms to look for, according to the CDC:
Fever
Body aches
Joint pain
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Rash
The CDC says about 1 in 150 people with West Nile virus develop severe illness. People over the age of 60 and those with preexisting medical conditions are at greater risk. Those symptoms can include:
High fever
Headache
Neck stiffness
Stupor
Disorientation
Coma
Tremors
Convulsions
Muscle weakness
Vision loss
Numbness
Paralysis
Symptoms usually develop between 2 and 14 days, but it can be longer for people who are immunocompromised, according to the CDC.
There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus. If you believe that you or someone you know may be infected, call your doctor.
Mosquito map
Here's a look at where and when EEE and West Nile Virus have been detected in our area this year.
Locations are not exact and are meant to illustrate findings by community. Source: RI DEM/RI DOH, MA DPH
Other mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue and zika are not often found in New England, but can be contracted when traveling to other parts of the world.
Close
Thanks for signing up!
Watch for us in your inbox.
Subscribe Now
Daily Roundup
SIGN UP NOW
Welcome to Billionaire Club Co LLC, your gateway to a brand-new social media experience! Sign up today and dive into over 10,000 fresh daily articles and videos curated just for your enjoyment. Enjoy the ad free experience, unlimited content interactions, and get that coveted blue check verification—all for just $1 a month!
Account Frozen
Your account is frozen. You can still view content but cannot interact with it.
Please go to your settings to update your account status.
Open Profile Settings