Mosquitoes in Alburgh and Swanton have tested positive for eastern equine encephalitis virus, according to a Friday press release from the Vermont Department of Health and the Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets.
The virus is rare in humans, but can cause serious illness or even death. The release clarified that the majority of people who contract the virus will have mild or nonexistent symptoms. The potential for infection is highest in late summer and early fall, according to the release.
The Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets collected the positive samples on July 22.
“Finding EEE virus in mosquitoes is a warning sign,” Health Commissioner Mark Levine said in the release. “Please take steps to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites.”
The health department advises wearing long sleeves, using bug spray, limiting outdoor time around dusk and minimizing standing water near living areas. Covering strollers and playpens with mosquito netting, and repairing window screens, are also good precautions, according to the release.
The virus was previously detected in Vermont mosquitoes in August 2023, when at least one horse was infected in Swanton. Prior to that, “Triple E” had not been found in the state since 2015.
Two Vermonters died from the virus in 2012, the only confirmed human cases in the state’s history. While there is a vaccine for horses, there is no specific treatment for humans, according to the release.
Environmental Surveillance Program Manager Patti Casey said that mosquito counts have ballooned this year, registering three to four times higher than cumulative averages since 2015.
Standing water from the recent floods might be making a significant difference, according to Casey. “Floodwaters leave impounded water in places where mosquitoes love,” she said.
