Outbreak of Eastern Equine Encephalitis
DETROIT — Infectious disease experts at the Detroit Medical Center urge people to be diligent in light of recent cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis. The potentially deadly virus is carried by certain types of mosquitoes. To date, there have been 3 deaths and a total of 7 confirmed cases in West Michigan according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
“While there have not been any cases of in Southeast Michigan, it’s important that residents know the risks and take precautions,” says, Dr. Teena Chopra, DMC infectious disease specialist. “We don’t want people to panic, but people should be protected.”
What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) Virus?
- It is a serious disease that can affect anyone, but children and people older than 60 are more likely to get the severe form of EEE illness.
- It is a rare cause of brain infections
- Symptoms are fever, general discomfort, joint and muscle pain, the illness can last 1-2 weeks and recovery is complete if no brain involvement.
- EEE is a virus transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.
- EEE is found primarily in areas with swamps and bogs.
- Peak season between August and September.
- Incubation time after the mosquito bite is 4-10 days
Who is at Risk?
- People who engage in outdoor work and recreational activities in endemic areas are at increased risk of infection
- Persons older than 50 and younger than 15 seem to be at greatest risk for developing severe disease
Prevention Tips
- Use Insect Repellent: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-insect repellents with one of the active ingredients below
- DEET, Picardidin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon eucalyptus or paramenthane-diol, 2-undecanone
- Do not use Oil of Lemon eucalyptus or paramenthane-diol, 2-undecanone in children
Tips for Babies and Children
- Always follow instructions when applying insect repellent to children
- Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months old
- Do not apply insect repellent on to a child’s hand, eyes, mouth and cut or irritated skin.
- Do not use products containing Oil of Lemon eucalyptus and paramenthane-diol, 2-undecanone
- Take steps to control mosquitoes inside and outside your home
- Use screen on windows and doors
- Eliminate potential breeding area for mosquitoes
- Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed
- Flush ornamental fountains and bird baths periodically
- Frequently replace water in pet bowls
- Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover or throw out items that hold water.
- Wear long sleeved shirts and long pants
When travelling overseas
- Choose a hotel or lodging with air conditioning or screens or windows and doors.
- Sleep under mosquito bed net if you are outside in a room that does not have screens Body of
About Detroit Medical Center
The Detroit Medical Center operates eight hospitals and institutes, including Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit Receiving Hospital, Harper University Hospital, Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital, Hutzel Women’s Hospital, Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan, Sinai-Grace Hospital and DMC Heart Hospital. The Detroit Medical Center is a leading regional health care system with a mission of excellence in clinical care, research and medical education. The Detroit Medical Center is proud to be the Official Healthcare Services Provider of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings. For more information, visit www.dmc.org. “Like” us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/dmcheals, follow us on Twitter at @dmc_heals or check out our YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/user/DetroitMedicalCenter.