A child died in Baldwin County after being bitten by a mosquito infected with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Another case was reported in Baldwin County. At least one of the Baldwin County cases occurred in the Spanish Fort area, officials said.
No other cases have been reported in the state.
There have been a few other cases in New York and Vermont.
Someone infected with EEE typically develops symptoms four to 10 days after a bite. It causes flu-like symptoms that can last up to two weeks. The infection can spread to the brain, causing a headache or to the spinal cord, causing a stiff neck.
There is no vaccine or treatment for EEE.
The Alabama Department of Public Health alerted the public about the rare illness and recommended the following tips to avoid mosquito bites:
Use insect repellents
Wear long sleeves and long pants when possible
Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes
Treat clothing with repellents
Use air conditioning or screens on windows and doors
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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