A 70-year-old Clinch County woman who was hospitalized in June is Georgia's first and the nation's third reported victim of Eastern equine encephalitis this year, the Southeast Health District reported.
The woman tested positive for the rare mosquito-borne disease and is recuperating at home, the health district said in a release.
Only five to 10 human cases are reported each year, the Georgia Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.
The disease is spread only by the bites of mosquitoes carrying the virus, for which there is no specific treatment once the victim shows symptoms, the health district said.
Most people infected show no symptoms, but those who do may develop high fevers, stiff necks, headaches, vomiting and a loss of energy. The illness may progress into disorientation, seizures and coma.
There is no human vaccine. Residents are encouraged to avoid mosquito bites with the following tips:
- Avoiding outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants to reduce skin exposure.
- Using an insect repellent containing DEET, the most effective against mosquito bites.
- Draining buckets, barrels, wading pools and other standing water where mosquitoes could breed.
- Making sure doors, windows and screens are in good condition and fit tightly to keep out mosquitoes.Terry Dickson: (912) 264- 0405