Potentially deadly Eastern Equine Encephalitis found in Onondaga County mosquitoes

Mosquito bite

A mosquito bites a human arm June 7, 2004, in Ludington, Michigan.Andy Klevorn/Ludington Daily News for AP

Syracuse, N.Y. -- The rare but potentially deadly Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus has been detected in mosquitoes trapped in the Cicero Swamp, the Onondaga County Health Department said today.

It’s the first sign of the virus in Onondaga County this summer. EEE was recently detected in mosquitoes in Oswego County and in Madison County.

At least seven people have died of EEE in Onondaga and Oswego counties since 1971.

The virus is spread by mosquitoes that become infected by feeding on infected birds. Both humans and horses are at risk of getting EEE through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

Symptoms of EEE include sudden high fever, muscle pains and headaches. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should get medical attention immediately, according to the health department.

People should use insect repellent when outdoors and limit outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active, the department said.

While there is no EEE vaccine for humans, there is one for horses. The department said horses should get the vaccination twice a year.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.