Florida Health Officials: First “Brain Swelling” Viral Death From Mosquito Bite Reported

The first death from a mosquito-borne virus has occurred in Florida.  Health officials say that the viral infection causes brain swelling and was reported in Orange County.

The EEE virus (Eastern equine encephalitis) has killed one human being in Florida. Just last week, SHTFPlan reported that EEEV has been detected in mosquitoes in New York and Massachusetts. Now, the virus has claimed it’s first victim.

EEE Virus: Mosquitoes Carrying Deadly Virus Found In NY & MA

The potentially deadly infection spreads through a mosquito bite. Once infected, the symptoms can take 4 to 10 days to show up in a person.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the EEE virus can cause a rare brain infection called encephalitis. Around 30 percent of individuals who catch the virus die. Those that survive can suffer mild to severe brain damage.

Each year, between 5 to 10 cases are reported the CDC states. These mostly occur during the late spring to fall in subtropical areas, such as the Gulf States. The insects lay their eggs in or around water, so EEE-carrying mosquitoes most often lurk in swampy areas. –Newsweek

EEE is more common in Atlantic and Gulf Coast states, though the CDC said some cases have been reported in the Great Lakes area. It’s rare; only 5 to 10 cases are reported each year in the U.S, but the virus is fatal in one-third of those infected. Even though it is rare to contract the disease, those who do and survive it are often left with mild to moderate brain damage.

To prevent EEEV, it is best to prevent mosquito bites.  Wear bug spray and use mosquito traps or candles.  If you have a lot of mosquitoes in your area, measures should be taken to help prevent the reproduction of the bugs. This advice also helps reduce infections from mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus and Zika. You should dispose of used tires; drill holes in recycling containers left outdoors and ensure your roof gutters are draining properly.

DIY: How To Make An Affordable & Effective Mosquito Trap

This article has been contributed by SHTF Plan. Visit www.SHTFplan.com for alternative news, commentary and preparedness info.