Deadly Mosquito-Borne Virus That Causes Brain Swelling Has Been Detected In Florida
Health officials in Florida are warning people of an uptick in a mosquito-borne virus known as Eastern Equine Encepahalitis.
Several chickens have tested positive for the disease which can spread to humans via the infected mosquitos and can cause a brain infection and swelling. The FL Department of Health said the risk of transmission to humans has increased. Only 7 cases of the virus in humans are reported each year in the United States, however it can be fatal and 30% of people who contract it die. People develop symptoms 4 to 10 days after they are bitten by an infected mosquito.Signs include sudden onset of head aches, high fever, chills and vomiting. More severe symptoms include disorientation, seizures and coma. Officials warned people to avoid being bitten by draining standing water around their homes, covering skin with clothing or repellant, and using screens to cover doors and windows.
