Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) still remains a threat in the state of Michigan. 10 people have been diagnosed with disease, and five of those cases have ended in fatality, with the most recent case this week. The most recent case happened in an individual who was a resident of Cass County, which is in the southwestern part of the state. An additional horse has also been diagnosed with the disease. 40 animals from 16 different counties, including Lapeer County have been confirmed as having contracted EEE. Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy for Health at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said, “The risk of EEE continues if there has not been a sustained period of freezing temperatures.”
The MDHHS wants residents to continue using measures to avoid contact with mosquitoes, as they are responsible for the spread of the disease. Aerial treatment covering more than 557,000 acres targeting 14 counties was completed October 7th to help combat EEE. It is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the United States with a 33 percent fatality rate.
Reporting for WGRT, Mike Smith.
