UNDATED (WSAU-WXPR) — Two emus have tested positive for the mosquito-borne Eastern Equine Encephalitis in Oneida County.
Public Health Nurse Rob Deede says the virus is transmitted to humans, horses, birds and other animals from infected mosquitoes. Deede says if animals are infected it means humans can be infected.
He said, “We know it’s in our community and we know that mosquitoes can be spreading that virus. We want to encourage folks to make sure you’re wearing insect repellant. This has been a weird year where it’s still fairly warm and humid. We have mosquitoes well into September.”
Most people infected don’t show symptoms, but it is possible to develop more serious problems.
“Eastern Equine Encephalitis is a swelling and inflammation of the spinal cord. It can lead to disorientation. Some pretty significant issues in regard to that whenever we talk about injury and damage to the brain,” said Deede.
Animals are more heavily affected by the virus and show a loss of appetite, drooping eyelids, a lower lip, blindness, paralysis, and death. Horses can be vaccinated against EEE, but authorities still recommend taking measures to avoid mosquito bites until the winter.
Interview from Ken Krall, WXPR.
