Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEv)

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a rare disease that is caused by a virus spread by infected mosquitoes. In the United States, approximately 5-10 EEE cases are reported annually.

EEE is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, not person to person.

Mosquitoes carrying disease can be found across New York State. Madison County, along with Onondaga, Oneida, and Oswego Counties are considered high risk areas for EEE in Central New York.

• View mosquito surveillance data for Madison County.

Prevent Mosquito Bites

There is no vaccine or preventive drug.

Reducing exposure to mosquitoes is the best defense against infection with EEEV virus and other mosquito-borne viruses. There are several approaches you and your family can use to prevent and control mosquito-borne diseases.

• Use repellent: When outdoors, use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin and/or clothing. The repellent/insecticide permethrin can be used on clothing to protect through several washes. Always follow the directions on the package. Find a mosquito repellent that is right for you.
• Wear protective clothing: Wear long sleeves and pants when weather permits.
• Install and repair screens: Have secure, intact screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
• Keep mosquitoes from laying eggs near you: Mosquitoes can lay eggs even in small amounts of standing water. Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets, barrels, and tires. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Empty children's wading pools and store on their side after use.