EEE is transmitted by mosquitos, about 30% of people infected die, and survivors suffer long-term effects.
Second human case of EEE virus confirmed in Massachusetts – WCVB – Updated: 10:10 PM EDT Aug 29, 2024 The town of Plymouth is responding by closing parks at dusk and rescheduling school sports to earlier in the day, moving traditional Friday night football games to a 4 p.m. start. The changes have sparked mixed reactions. “It’s a pretty big tradition here on Friday nights,” said John Hilliard, who opposes the curfew. “I think the town should leave it to the individual if they want to take the necessary precautions. To penalize everyone as a whole, I just think it’s wrong.” Eastern equine encephalitis is a rare but potentially deadly disease that can cause long-term physical and mental complications for survivors. There are no vaccines or treatments for EEE. “EEE can cause severe illness and possibly lead to death in any age group; however, people under age 15 and over age 50 are at particular risk,” a MassDPH statement said.
Public health isn’t a punishment, it’s a protection.