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For Immediate Release
September 27, 2024
Contact: Elizabeth Goodsitt/Jennifer Miller 608-266-1683
DHS Urges Wisconsinites To Protect Themselves from Mosquito Bites
Precautions recommended after two horses in the state infected with Eastern equine encephalitis
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) urges people to continue to take steps to prevent mosquito bites after two horses in the state tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEE). The Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced a case in Marathon County yesterday, and then confirmed another case in Clark County. This is evidence mosquitoes are present in the state that can spread EEE to animals and people.
EEE is a rare but serious disease. One human case of EEE was reported in Wisconsin earlier this year, but they most likely acquired their infection during travel to another state. EEE virus spreads to humans, horses, and other animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes acquire EEE by feeding on infected birds. The virus is not spread person to person, directly between animals, or between animals and humans.
View the entire news release.
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