Beaufort County, September 21, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed the first human death from the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus in Beaufort County since 2003. This incident highlights the dangers of EEE, a mosquito-borne illness that can lead to severe neurological issues. The DPH has urged residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as the mortality rate for severe cases is approximately 30%. County officials are implementing mosquito control measures following the incident.
Beaufort, South Carolina Reports First Human Death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis in Over 20 Years
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed the state’s first human death caused by the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus since 2003. This tragic event marks the first reported human case of the EEE virus in South Carolina since 2020. The victim was from Beaufort County, although no specific details about the individual have been released due to privacy restrictions.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 30% of individuals who develop severe EEE die, with many survivors facing ongoing neurological problems. EEE infections can lead to mild febrile illness or severe neurological complications such as encephalitis or meningitis. Common symptoms of EEE include fever, chills, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, seizures, and altered consciousness. The severity of infections tends to be more common among individuals younger than 15 and older than 50.
Currently, there are no vaccines or specific medications available for treating EEE virus infection in humans. In light of this risk, the DPH has issued recommendations for reducing mosquito bites. Residents are advised to wear long sleeves and pants, use EPA-registered repellents like DEET, and treat clothing with permethrin.
Mosquito Control Efforts in Beaufort County
In response to this incident, Beaufort County Mosquito Control has implemented several measures, including multiple truck-based spraying applications. Plans are also in place to spray by helicopter to ensure broader coverage throughout the area. Moreover, the county is setting mosquito traps to test for the EEE virus. The closest trap to the reported case was found to be approximately 2.5 miles away, and thus far, no EEE-positive mosquitoes have been detected in 2025.
Since mid-July to August 2025, Beaufort County identified 10 EEE virus-positive horses in various counties outside of Beaufort, including Aiken, Colleton, Horry, Jasper, Orangeburg, and Sumter.
The DPH continues its collaboration with the CDC to monitor mosquito-borne diseases through trapping and testing mosquitoes, as well as examining dead birds and other animals in the area. It is essential to note that the disease is transmitted to humans only through the bite of an infected mosquito, as there is no person-to-person transmission.
Conclusion
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being vigilant against mosquito bites, particularly in areas where EEE has been detected. Residents are encouraged to practice precautions and stay informed about local mosquito control efforts to minimize their risk of infection.
FAQ
What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)?
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a viral disease that can lead to febrile illness or severe neurological complications such as encephalitis or meningitis.
What are the symptoms of EEE?
Symptoms of EEE can include fever, chills, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, seizures, and altered consciousness.
How can I protect myself from EEE?
To reduce mosquito bites, residents are advised to wear long sleeves and pants, use EPA-registered repellents like DEET, and treat clothing with permethrin.
How many EEE cases have been reported recently in South Carolina?
This incident marks the first human case of EEE virus reported in South Carolina since 2020, though 10 EEE virus-positive horses were identified in various counties from mid-July to August 2025.
Key Features of Eastern Equine Encephalitis:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Through the bite of an infected mosquito; no person-to-person transmission. |
| Symptoms | Fever, chills, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, seizures, altered consciousness. |
| Mortality Rate | Approximately 30% of severe cases. |
| At-Risk Populations | Individuals younger than 15 or older than 50. |
| Prevention | Wear long sleeves/pants, use DEET repellents, treat clothing with permethrin. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
First Human Death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis in South Carolina
First Death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis in Beaufort County
First Death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis Reported in Beaufort County
First Eastern Equine Encephalitis Death in Beaufort County
First Human Death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis in Beaufort County
First Human Death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis Confirmed in Beaufort County
Beaufort County Reports First Confirmed Death from EEE Virus
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Beaufort County Mosquito-Borne EEE Virus Death
- Wikipedia: Eastern Equine Encephalitis
- WYFF4: South Carolina EEE Virus Death
- Google Search: Eastern Equine Encephalitis
- WPDE: SC DPH Reports First EEE Virus Death in 20 Years
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Eastern Equine Encephalitis
- Fox Carolina: Death Due to EEE Confirmed in SC
- Google News: EEE Virus South Carolina
- Post and Courier: Lowcountry Mosquito EEE Fatality
- Google Scholar: Eastern Equine Encephalitis
- WCCB Charlotte: DPH Confirms First Human EEE Death in SC
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
