Residents of Vermont and northern New York have been warned: Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is in our area. The mosquito-borne illness has infected several people across New England. Local health experts recommend the following prevention measures to stay safe.
EEE Prevention Tips
The Vermont Department of Health and New York State Department of Health have issued guidance to prevent mosquito bites.
- Avoid outdoor activities between 6 pm and 6 am when mosquitoes are most active if you live in a high-risk area.
- Check window screens for rips, tears and holes.
- Eliminate standing water in yards and around your property where mosquitoes can breed, including plastic containers, pool covers, wading pools, ceramic pots, clogged drainpipes and wheelbarrows.
- Use bug spray that contains DEET.
Expert Q+A: EEE and DEET
We spoke with Cindy Noyes, MD, an internist and infection disease physician at University of Vermont Medical Center, about EEE and DEET.
Q: What is EEE?
A: EEE stands for Eastern Equine Encephalitis. It's a viral infection that can make humans sick.
Q: What are the symptoms of EEE?;/h3>
A: EEE is rare, but symptoms include fever, achy joints and muscles, and feeling unwell. Severe cases can lead to brain inflammation, resulting in headaches, neck stiffness, vomiting, seizures and even death.
Q: How do I protect myself from EEE?
A: The best protection against EEE and other mosquito-borne illnesses is prevention. Avoid outdoor activities from dusk to dawn, wear long pants and long-sleeve shirts and use insect repellents that contain DEET.
Q: Is DEET safe to use?
A: Yes, DEET is safe when used as directed. Alternatives like citronella and eucalyptus oil are less effective, especially against ticks. Wearables, like treated bracelets, are not effective.
The American Academy of Pediatrics endorses the use of DEET in children over 3 months old, as long as you don’t use it on children’s hands and wash it off when you come back inside.
Q: Are the side effects of DEET less common than the risks of insect-borne disease?
A: Absolutely. The minor risk of skin irritation from DEET is minimal compared to the severe risks of mosquito and tick-borne illnesses. DEET also helps prevent tick attachment, reducing the risk of Lyme disease and other serious conditions.
Bottom line? The best way to protect yourself from ticks, mosquitoes and other summer bugs is to keep them off your skin. Wear appropriate clothing and use DEET repellent to stay safe.
