According to New York State Governor Kathy Hochul, a person in New York State has died after contracting Eastern Equine Encephalitis, also known as Triple E.
According to the governor’s office, this is the first reported case of the virus in New York State since 2015.
On September 20, a case was confirmed in Ulster County, leading the State Health Department to issue a Declaration of Imminent Threat to Public Health due to the virus.
The state can now provide additional resources to aid in the prevention of Triple E, including increased mosquito spraying efforts.
Visitors to State Parks will now be provided with mosquito repellent, according to a statement from Hochul’s Office. In addition, the Department of Environmental Conservation plans to increase awareness about the virus by placing signs around campgrounds.
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention suggests several effective strategies for preventing mosquito bites.
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- Using EPA-approved insect repentant and those that contain DEET
- Wearing protective clothing such as long-sleeve shorts and pants
- Wear clothing and gear treated with permethrin
- Make sure screens in windows and doors do not have any rips or tears
- Stopping mosquitos from laying eggs near or around water.
