EEE, a New Threat to Human Health

This autumn, a large surge in Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in humans has left officials concerned.  A total of nine states have reported 37 human cases — typically there are fewer than10 cases nationwide each year. Unfortunately the same protocol that is designed to protect civilians is also the reason that the outbreak has yet to be solved. A select pathogen, meaning that the government has recognized EEE's potential to be a bioweapon, EEE is only allowed to be handled by certified labs. That means any samples found in mosquitoes, birds, and mammals must be destroyed within seven days after the disocvery of the virus in the material. The time it takes to fill out and process the needed paperwork to become certified to handle special agents costs researchers time and money. As the numbers climb, many are concerned about the possible crisis that looms ahead--especially since EEE has many reservoirs such as mosquitoes, birds, people, horses, deer, alpaca, and even a wolf cub in a Michigan zoo.



Source: https://www.statnews.com/2019/11/27/surge-eee-cases-federal-rules-requiring-quick-sample-disposal/

Caity McGinley