Eastern Equine Encephalitis – Morris County

Posted Monday, September 23rd, 2019

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

What is eastern equine encephalitis (EEE)? Eastern equine encephalitis is a rare but
serious viral infection. This disease is most common in the eastern half of the United States
and is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. EEE can affect humans,
horses and some birds. The risk of getting EEE is highest from late July through early
October. (NJ DOH)

EEE in NJ and Morris County:  This year in NJ there has been a definite increase of
EEE virus in mosquito populations.  There have been 67 EEE positive mosquito pools
(samples) collected and tested throughout NJ.  Morris County Mosquito Control
conducts extensive adult mosquito sampling throughout the county, 464 mosquito pools
have been submitted for testing and 10 of those were positive for EEE.  There has also
been one horse in Morris County that has tested positive for EEE.

How to protect yourself:  It is especially important to avoid mosquito bites at this time
of the year.
Use an EPA Registered insect repellent
Avoid times of high mosquito activity, Dawn and Dusk
Empty containers of standing water: birdbaths, tires, roof gutters, downspouts, flower pots, garbage cans
Wear long sleeves and pants
Report standing water to your local mosquito control agency

What is Morris County Mosquito Control doing?  Morris County Mosquito Control
staff continues to collect adult mosquitoes and submit for both West Nile Virus and
EEE.  Inspectors are actively checking mosquito habitat and either larviciding or
adulticiding as necessary.  All NJ mosquito control agencies have a unique relationship
and share information especially about any mosquito or virus activity along county
borders.  Service requests are always welcome from the public so if you have an area
of concern, please call us 973-285-6450.

More information:

EEE FAQ – NJ Department of Health
https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/faq/EEE-New%20FAQ%20logo.pdf