West NY News

The Chautauqua County Health Department (CCHD) has issued a reminder for residents to take measures against mosquito bites and protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses such as Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV).

This advisory follows a notification from the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) about a confirmed human case of EEE in Ulster County, marking the first such case in New York State since 2015. The individual has died due to the virus. Governor Hochul has declared an imminent threat to public health and urges residents to follow recommendations to mitigate risks.

“WNV and EEE are serious viral diseases transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito,” stated Michael Faulk M.D., Chautauqua County’s Chief Medical Officer. “Even in the early fall as temperatures cool, mosquito-borne illnesses are still a risk and people must be cautious. While there is no vaccine to protect against EEE or WNV, the best way to protect yourself is to keep mosquitoes from biting you. By following a few basic measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of exposure.”

Residents are advised to take precautions, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Recommendations include using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants when possible, and reducing standing water around homes which can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Specific steps suggested by CCHD include disposing of containers that hold water, properly managing used tires, ensuring roof gutters drain correctly, removing leaf debris, turning over wading pools when not in use, changing birdbath water twice weekly, cleaning pond edges, chlorinating swimming pools and hot tubs, draining pool covers, and landscaping to prevent water collection.

EEE is described as a rare but serious infection caused by inflammation of the brain. It is transmitted by mosquitoes and can affect humans as well as animals like birds and horses. Symptoms may range from headache and fever to seizures or coma in severe cases. There is no specific treatment or vaccine for EEE; care focuses on supportive therapy.

While all ages are at risk for EEE infection, children under 15 years old and adults over 50 years old face higher risks of severe disease.

As per NYSDOH's latest report covering September 8-14, 2024:

- There have been 15 counties with positive EEE virus cases.

- Chautauqua County has not detected any positive EEE virus mosquito pools this year.

WNV is similarly spread through infected mosquitoes feeding on birds before transmitting the virus to humans or other animals. Symptoms may vary from mild fever and body aches to severe conditions like encephalitis or meningitis. Severe symptoms might include high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness among others.

According to NYSDOH’s recent data:

- A total of 555 WNV positive mosquito pools were identified statewide outside NYC.

- Only one positive pool was identified in Chautauqua County in mid-August.

For more information on WNV and EEE visit:

- www.health.ny.gov/diseases/west_nile_virus/fact_sheet.htm

- www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/eastern_equine_encephalitis/

Chautauqua County Health Department continues its efforts in preventing disease while promoting community health through various programs.