Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is a potentially lethal arbovirus belonging to the genus Alphavirus in the family Togaviridae. It is primarily transmitted to humans and other vertebrates through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly those belonging to the Culiseta melanura species. The virus is most commonly found in eastern North America, specifically in coastal and freshwater swamp habitats.
EEEV infection can lead to eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), a severe and often fatal illness in humans. Initial symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and joint pain. In more severe cases, individuals may experience neurological complications such as neck stiffness, seizures, and coma. EEE is characterized by a high mortality rate, with survivors often suffering from long-term neurological damage.
The primary reservoirs for EEEV are wild birds, particularly wading birds, passerines, and game birds, which maintain the virus in their bloodstream. Mosquitoes then become infected by feeding on infected birds and subsequently transmit the virus to humans and other mammals. While humans are considered incidental hosts, transmission can occur when an infected mosquito bites a preferred host, such as a horse or human.
Prevention and control of EEEV involve interrupting the transmission cycle through mosquito control measures, such as using insect repellents, eliminating standing water sources, and using protective clothing. Vaccines are currently available for horses, which are highly susceptible to the virus, but there is currently no commercially available vaccine specifically for humans. Early diagnosis and supportive care remain crucial in managing EEE infections in humans.
