Eastern equine encephalitis
Pathogen
The first confirmed human cases of Eastern equine encephalitis were identified in 1938, when 30 children died of encephalitis in the northeastern United States. These cases coincided with outbreaks in horses in the same region. The fatality rate in humans is approximately 33% and there is currently no cure for human infections.
Distribution
Vector – Coquillettidia perturbans
Known as the “cattail mosquito,” Coquillettidia perturbans prefers areas of low elevation, high concentrations of vegetation, and still waters. Larvae are unique in that they attach themselves, with a modified siphon, to succulent vegetation for their oxygen source. Females bite primarily at night, usually during the early hours, but they can also be found in shady areas of their habitat during the day.
Larval Habitat
Dense emergent vegetation