New York’s first human case of eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) since 2015 was reported in an Ulster County resident last week. That individual has now died. The case is currently under investigation by the Ulster County Department of Health.

In response to the confirmed fatality, Governor Kathy Hochul has declared an imminent threat to public health and is urging New Yorkers to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. These precautions include wearing long sleeves, applying insect repellant, and avoiding outdoor activity at dusk and dawn.

“Following the first confirmed human case of EEE, my administration took statewide action to help protect communities – and with today’s declaration we’re making more State resources available to local departments to support their public health response,” Governor Hochul said. “We’ve been informed this patient has passed away from EEE, we extend our sympathies and our hearts go out to their family.”

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald emphasized the seriousness of the situation. “Eastern equine encephalitis is different this year. While we normally see these mosquitoes in two to three counties each year, this year they have been in 15 counties so far, and scattered all over New York State,” he said. “This life-threatening mosquito-borne disease has no commercially available human vaccine and must be taken seriously. Mosquitoes, once a nuisance, are now a threat. I urge all New Yorkers to prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing and removing free-standing water near their homes. Fall is officially here, but mosquitoes will be around until we see multiple nights of below freezing temperatures.”

The state health department is working with local health officials to investigate the case and prevent further infections. In addition to the public health measures being taken, the state is also providing resources to local health departments to support their response efforts.

For more information about EEE, visit the New York State Department of Health website at www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/eastern_equine_encephalitis.