ALBANY -  Health officials from counties in Central New York have joined together with State Health Commissioner Nirav Shah, M.D., M.P.H., to raise awareness about the dangers of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and the importance of taking personal protective measures to reduce the risk of disease.

New York State and counties work together each year to monitor mosquito populations and the potential for the spread of disease. They also educate people on how to prevent mosquito bites. This year's efforts are critical in light of three deaths in the past three years in Central New York due to EEE virus, including the death of a young child last summer.

Mosquitoes that carry disease-causing viruses can be found across the State, but historically the highest risk areas for the EEE virus specifically are the Central New York counties of Onondaga, Oneida, Madison and Oswego. Although EEE virus is rarely transmitted to people, when it is, the virus can cause serious illness or death.

"Tragically, we have seen firsthand that some mosquito bites can have serious health impacts," said Commissioner Shah. "This year, we will redouble our efforts to aggressively track, monitor, and contain mosquitoes that test positive for EEE virus, while also providing information to help New Yorkers take the proper precautions to protect themselves."

In consultation with DOH, counties that are considered to be at high risk for EEE initiate mosquito control programs, which include the use of aerial spraying when it is determined to be necessary, to reduce public health risks. Residents may contact their local health departments to obtain up-to-date information on mosquito control efforts in their counties.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes that can affect people and horses. People who are infected may suffer a range of symptoms, from no symptoms to a mild, flu-like illness with fever, headaches and fatigue to serious illness involving seizures and, in rare cases, coma and death. More information on Eastern Equine Encephalitis is available at: www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/eastern_equine_encephalitis/fact_sheet.htm