Eastern Equine Encephalitis

Culiseta melanura mosquito preparing to feed on a blue jay

Photo courtesy of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station

Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Only a few cases are reported in the United States each year. Most cases occur in eastern or Gulf Coast states. Although rare, EEE is very serious. Approximately 30% of people with EEE die and many survivors have ongoing neurologic problems.

There are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat EEE. You can reduce your risk of infection with EEE virus by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and taking steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors.