In recent times, mosquito-borne diseases have become a significant health concern worldwide with the emergence of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus in the United States is adding to these worries. This rare virus has been recently reported in Alabama and New York, marking serious public health implications.
Understanding Eastern Equine Encephalitis
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a viral disease that leads to inflammation in the brain, commonly known as encephalitis. The disease is transmitted to both humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. EEE was first recognized in horses in Massachusetts, United States, back in 1831.
EEE is caused by the Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV), which falls under the Alphavirus genus and Togaviridae family. The EEE virus comprises a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA genome. The primary mode of transmission for EEEV is through the bite of infected mosquitoes, predominantly species from the Culiseta melanura group.
These mosquitoes consume the blood of both birds, which are reservoir hosts, and mammals, including but not limited to humans and horses, which are categorized as dead-end hosts. It’s important to clarify that the virus does not spread directly between humans or from animals like horses to people.
Recognizing Symptoms of Eastern Equine Encephalitis
The symptoms related to EEE may vary from mild to severe, often advancing rapidly. The virus typically manifests initially with high fever, headache, chills, and nausea. As the infection progresses, patients may experience more severe symptoms such as seizures, disorientation, and, in extreme cases, even coma.
Around 33% of those who acquire the infection do not survive — usually succumbing to the illness between 2 to 10 days following the appearance of the first symptoms. Those who do survive are at risk of experiencing long-standing neurological problems, which are more likely in individuals above 50 and below 15 years old.
Treatment Methods for Eastern Equine Encephalitis
At present, there are no specific vaccines available to treat Eastern equine encephalitis. To lessen the risk of infection, individuals are encouraged to adopt several precautionary measures. These include avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents and wearing protective clothing.
Past UPSC Civil Services Examination Question
In 2017, a question was posed in the UPSC Civil Services Examination: Consider the following statements:
1. In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by the same mosquito that transmits dengue.
2. Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible.
The question asked which of these statements were correct. The provided options were:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
The correct answer was (c) Both 1 and 2.
