Public health Alert: Mosquito-Borne ⁤Viruses on the Rise

Hamilton Public Health has⁢ confirmed the first case of Eastern‍ Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus in a horse since 2019, and simultaneously announced⁣ the first human case of West nile virus this year. ⁢ The city has elevated⁣ the risk level for West Nile ⁢virus to “high,” prompting increased public health guidance.

Understanding Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

EEE is a rare but serious illness transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The‍ virus typically circulates among wild birds, ⁢but can infect both humans and horses. ⁣While the risk⁢ of infection remains low, public health officials are urging residents to take⁣ preventative measures.

Symptoms of EEE typically appear 3 to 10 days after a ⁤bite and can range from flu-like symptoms – including fever, headache, and fatigue⁢ – to more severe neurological complications. Severe⁤ cases involve encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, characterized by a sudden onset of headache, high fever, chills, and vomiting.

West Nile Virus⁤ Risk Elevated

In addition to the EEE case, Hamilton has confirmed its first human case of West Nile virus ‍in 2025. This has prompted the city to raise the risk level‍ to “high,” indicating increased mosquito activity and a greater potential for transmission.

Protecting Yourself and Your Animals

Associate Medical Officer of Health Bart Harvey emphasizes the importance of taking precautions⁣ against mosquito-borne illnesses, even with a low overall risk. The ⁤city recommends the following steps:

• Wear insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin.
• Avoid or protect yourself when spending⁣ time in wooded areas, golf courses, or gardens, especially during dawn and dusk.
• Remove standing water‍ from ⁤your property at least weekly, as this provides ⁢breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
• Crucially, horses⁤ should be vaccinated against both EEE and West Nile virus.