Health Officials Warn Deadly Virus Found In Upstate New York May Begin To Spread

The deadliest animal on earth isn't a vicious mammal predator, nor a massive reptile waiting to chow down. It is, in fact, a tiny bug we know all too well: the mosquito.

While they may just seem like a nuisance, they carry hundreds of diseases that can wipe out swaths of the nearby populations, and now they're carrying something to Upstate New York.

Virus Resurfaces in New York

Recently, public health officials in New York's Madison County announced a confirmed human case of eastern equine encephalitis. This disease typically targets horses, but can be found in humans. 

The disease is fatal around 30% of the time, and often does not show with symptoms. Severe cases may start with headaches, chills, high fever, and vomiting. At its worst, the disease will progress to include seizures, encephalitis, and possible comas. As of now, there is no vaccination or cure for the disease, meaning infected have no course of action once they contract it.

How It Spreads and How to Stay Safe

As foreshadowed by my opening paragraph, this disease is spread by mosquitos, and can be near impossible to track. While summer may be over, mosquitoes will still be found across Upstate NY in the coming months, and you should stay protected.

Madison County Public Health recommends:

• Wearing long sleeves.
• Tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants.
• Use insect repellent using DEET.
• Ensure window screens are intact with no holes.
• Eliminate standing water anywhere on your property.

Use precaution when outside, and if you feel off, please contact your local physician or doctor.