Rhode Island Department of Health confirms human cases of EEE, West Nile

Gino DeAngelis, Ryan Medeiros,

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Health and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management announced the first human case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and an additional human case of West Nile Virus for the 2024 season.

The EEE case was from a Providence County resident in their 70s, while the human case of West Nile was a Newport County resident in their 60s.

This is in addition to the first human case of West Nile confirmed on Aug. 16.

RIDOH said the EEE case is the first in the state since 2019 and the 11th case since 1983.

Guidelines to prevent mosquito bites released by the Rhode Island Departments of Environmental Management and Health. (Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management)

The DEM said that residents can help with mosquito control by removing backyard larval habitats, such as clogged gutters and puddles.

RIDOH reminded residents of the following precautions to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses:

  • Put screens on windows and doors
  • Consider rescheduling outdoor activities during the evening or early morning
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants at dusk and dawn
  • Use EPA-approved bug spray

Officials added that the public should monitor any standing water around their homes, such as unused swimming pools and unclean gutters, which can serve as mosquito breeding grounds if not properly treated.

Residents should also look out for the Asian Tiger Mosquito, which is a daytime biter with a recognizable black and white pattern.

The DEM said that although EEE is extremely rare in humans, it is very serious and has a much higher human mortality rate than West Nile.

Horse owners are also advised to vaccinate their animals early in the season.

More information can be found here.

Categories: News, Rhode Island, Your Health

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