Hampstead, New Hampshire – Stephen Perry, a 41-year-old resident of Hampstead, New Hampshire, has tragically passed away after contracting Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rare mosquito-borne virus. Perry, who had no pre-existing health conditions, developed a severe central nervous system disease and succumbed to the illness within a week.
Stephen Perry was described by his family as a healthy and adventurous individual who cherished time with his loved ones. His passing highlights the significant threat posed by EEE, a disease that can cause severe brain damage and death.
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services reported that EEE cases are rare but noted recent detections in mosquitoes and horses across the state. Dr. Benjamin Chan, the state epidemiologist, warned of an increased risk of EEE and other mosquito-borne viruses, including West Nile Virus and Jamestown Canyon Virus.
Health officials in neighboring Massachusetts are also grappling with EEE and have implemented measures such as outdoor curfews and aerial mosquito spraying. The risk of EEE is expected to remain until the first hard freeze.
EEE symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, and potential brain inflammation. With no current vaccine or antiviral treatment, prevention through avoiding mosquito bites is crucial. The death of Stephen Perry underscores the serious nature of mosquito-borne illnesses.