First Mosquito Pool Positive For Eastern Equine Encephalitis

Snow Hill, Md. – The Worcester County Health Department received notification from the State of Maryland that a mosquito pool in southern Worcester County tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The pool sampled is in a remote, low lying area of the county, usually known to have standing water year-round. This is the first positive pool reported in Maryland for the year.

Arboviruses, such as the EEE virus, are most common during the summer and fall months. The viruses are transmitted by infected mosquitoes and spread to humans, birds, horses and other animals. Since mosquitoes can breed in as little as a quarter inch of water, the recent rain may have attracted more mosquitoes. Many factors impact when and where outbreaks occur, such as weather, numbers of mosquitoes that spread the virus, and human behavior.

The Worcester County Health Department provides the following tips to help prevent contact with mosquitoes and reduce risk of infection:

• Stay indoors at dawn and dusk.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
Use an EPA-registered insect repellent and follow package instructions.
Get rid of mosquito breeding sites.
Remove all discarded tires from property.
Dispose of water-holding containers.
Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly.
Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out.
Keep children’s wading pools empty and on their sides when they are not in use.

People with milder illnesses typically recover on their own, although symptoms may last for several weeks. In more severe cases, patients need to be hospitalized to receive supportive treatment. Signs and symptoms of Eastern Equine Encephalitis include fever, headache, irritability, restlessness, drowsiness, vomiting, diarrhea, cyanosis, convulsions, and coma. Anyone who has symptoms that cause concern should contact a health care provider.

For more tips and information about Eastern Equine Encephalitis, please visit our website athttp://worcesterhealth.org.