Experts warn of mosquito-borne brain infection in Florida
(HealthDay)—There is an increased risk for a mosquito-borne virus that causes brain infection and swelling, Florida health officials warn.
Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) has been detected in several sentinel chickens, according to the Florida Department of Health in Orange County, CNN reported. Sentinel chickens are tested regularly for the West Nile virus and EEE.
Based on the positive tests for EEE virus in the sentinel chickens in Orange County, the health department said "the risk of transmission to humans has increased," CNN reported.
Only about seven human cases of the EEE virus are reported in the United States each year. However, about one-third of people who contract it die and many survivors have long-term neurological problems, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
More information:
CNN Article
More Information: CDC
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