In August 2024, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) confirmed the city’s first human case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV). A resident tragically passed away after contracting this rare mosquito-borne illness, marking the first such case in Ottawa. OPH officials are now urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites, as EEEV is known to cause serious neurological complications and even death. This significant health alert has prompted increased awareness and preventive measures across the city.
What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV)?
Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV) is a rare but highly dangerous illness transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The virus primarily circulates between birds and mosquitoes but can be transmitted to humans and other mammals such as horses. While it is not contagious between humans, EEEV carries a high fatality rate, ranging between 30% and 70%, depending on the severity of the case. Those most vulnerable include people under 15 and over 50, as well as individuals with compromised immune systems.
The virus is notorious for its potential to cause encephalitis, which is the swelling of the brain. Symptoms typically begin 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite and may include:
- High fever
- Stiff neck
- Severe headache
- Fatigue
- Lack of energy
In more severe cases, EEEV can cause seizures, disorientation, coma, or death due to brain swelling. Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment or vaccine available for humans at this time. As a result, early diagnosis and supportive care are crucial for those infected. While rare, the mortality rate for EEEV makes it one of the deadliest mosquito-borne diseases in North America
Ottawa Public Health’s Advisory
Ottawa Public Health has released a public health advisory following the confirmation of this first EEEV case. Health officials are calling for all Ottawa residents to take proactive steps to reduce their risk of mosquito bites, particularly as mosquitoes remain active until the first frost of the season. The department emphasized that while EEEV is rare, the risk of infection remains until mosquito populations subside during the colder months.
OPH advises residents to:
- Apply mosquito repellent: Use a Health Canada-approved mosquito repellent containing DEET or icaridin, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Wear protective clothing: Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing, including long pants and socks when spending time outdoors.
- Repair window screens: Ensure that window and door screens are intact to keep mosquitoes from entering your home.
- Eliminate standing water: Remove sources of stagnant water around your property, such as birdbaths, clogged gutters, or flowerpots, as these areas are common breeding grounds for mosquitoes(CityNews Ottawa).
Protecting Yourself from EEEV and Other Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus is not the only mosquito-borne illness posing a threat to Ottawa residents. West Nile Virus (WNV), another mosquito-transmitted virus, is also a concern during late summer and early fall. OPH urges individuals to take general precautions to reduce exposure to mosquito bites to avoid these illnesses.
Key prevention tips include:
- Limiting outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk).
- Using insect netting over strollers and playpens when outdoors with young children.
- Ensuring all standing water is removed from property areas to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Staying informed about mosquito activity in Ottawa by visiting the OPH website and checking for updates on areas with high mosquito populations.
A Rare but Serious Threat
Though human cases of EEEV are extremely rare, the virus remains a serious public health concern because of its potential to cause lasting neurological damage or death. According to health officials, only three cases of EEEV had been recorded in Ontario as of 2023. However, the virus continues to be monitored closely, especially in rural and wooded areas where mosquito populations are more prevalent (CityNews Ottawa).
Residents should stay informed about mosquito-borne illness updates in Ottawa and take advantage of the resources provided by local health authorities. As temperatures drop in the coming weeks, the risk of mosquito bites will decrease, but until then, Ottawa Public Health emphasizes the importance of continued vigilance.
For the latest updates on this case and other health advisories, visit ViaOttawa to know more.