Rare + Serious Viral Disease Present In Wisconsin

We can file this one under new fear unlocked! Did you know there is a serious and viral disease that has been making headlines around the country? It's true and it is also present in Wisconsin.

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So what is this viral disease and why is it making headlines now? First, don't panic because it is not spreading across the state. However, it is possible to be infected as it is present in Wisconsin. Take a deep breath!

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What Is Eastern Equine Encephalitis + How Is It Spread?

The disease in question is Eastern equine encephalitis is spread through mosquito bite. This is not just any mosquito bite: the mosquito must carry the disease and then bite you, in turn infecting you with the virus.

READ MORE: This Body Wash Might Be A Mosquito Repellent

Symptoms of EEE include the following:

• Fever
• Chills
• Body aches
• Joint pain
• Neurological symptoms like headache, vomiting, diarrhea, coma and more

The CDC says that there is no treatment and about one in three people do pass from EEE.

So Wisconsin Residents Are At Risk Of Contracting EEE?

It is true that if you live in Wisconsin, it is possible to get Eastern equine encephalitis. However, it is rare. Here's what the Wisconsin Department of Health Services defines it at the time of writing:

Mosquitoes that spread Eastern equine encephalitis can be found throughout Wisconsin.

Therefore, EEE is present in Wisconsin but is incredibly rare. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, there have been seven cases of EEE ever in the state, from 1964 to 2022. Four of those happened between 2020 to 2022.

How Can I Prevent Getting EEE?

You do not need to be scared to go outside. To be safe, use bug spray on your skin and clothing, wear appropriate outdoor clothing and avoid places that are mosquito hotbeds if possible.