Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) Infections Reported in NJ, 4 Other States
The Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus has sickened 6 people in NJ, Massachusetts, Vermont and Wisconsin. EEE is a relatively rare virus spread by mosquito bites. Infections usually cause mild symptoms including fever, headache and low energy. However, approximately 2% of infected individuals suffer encephalitis: a type of brain infection which can be life-threatening. Children under 15 years old and adults older than 50 are more likely to experience severe complications from the infection. No treatments currently exist for EEE.
Full Story: HealthDay
FDA Approves New, More Accurate Lyme Disease Test
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new test for lyme disease. The test kit, developed by ID-FISH Technology, Inc., is more sensitive in detecting the lyme disease-causing bacteria than existing tests. This improved accuracy could help more patients get diagnosed more quickly, which would greatly improve health outcomes for people with the disease.
Full Story: CIDRAP
