September 22, 2025

Beaufort County Reports First EEE Death in Over Two Decades

Beaufort County, September 22, 2025

News Summary

The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed the first death due to Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Beaufort County in over 20 years. This tragic incident highlights the importance of mosquito control and public awareness, as EEE poses severe health risks. In response, local authorities have intensified mosquito control measures. Health officials are urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, emphasizing the rarity of human EEE cases while underscoring the seriousness of the disease.

Beaufort County, South Carolina Reports First EEE Death in Over 20 Years

The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed the first death from mosquito-borne Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in more than 20 years. A resident in Beaufort County contracted the EEE virus and subsequently died. This incident marks the first human case of EEE reported in South Carolina since 2020, adding urgency to mosquito control measures in the area.

The last EEE-related death in South Carolina occurred in 2003, indicating how rare these cases are in the state. EEE is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito and is not contagious between people. The virus can cause serious illnesses such as fever, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). Approximately 30% of severe EEE cases can result in death, and many survivors suffer from long-term neurological issues.

Current Response to the Health Risk

In response to the recent death, Beaufort County Mosquito Control has conducted multiple mosquito spraying missions, employing both truck and aerial applications to reduce mosquito populations. Since the beginning of the year 2025, no EEE-positive mosquitoes have been detected in Beaufort County. This incident has prompted a renewed commitment to examining and monitoring mosquito populations in the region, as well as enhancing local surveillance and trapping efforts.

Despite the confirmed death, officials have noted that human cases of EEE are rare, yet they emphasize the seriousness of such diseases. As part of their ongoing efforts, Beaufort County Mosquito Control routinely tests mosquitoes to track potential virus spread, even though no EEE-positive mosquitoes were found in Beaufort County in recent testing. Additionally, 10 horses across South Carolina have tested positive for EEE since mid-July, though none were identified in Beaufort County.

Preventive Measures for Residents

Health officials are urging residents to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. Recommendations include wearing long sleeves and light-colored clothing, as well as using EPA-registered repellents. These measures are important for reducing the risk of infection from mosquito-borne diseases such as EEE.

Conclusion

The recent death from EEE underlines the importance of public awareness regarding mosquito-borne illnesses and highlights the need for continued monitoring and effective mosquito control strategies. Individuals in South Carolina, particularly in Beaufort County, are urged to remain vigilant during this peak mosquito season.

FAQ

What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)?

EEE is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito and is not contagious between people. Infection can lead to serious illnesses, including fever, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord).

How common are human cases of EEE in South Carolina?

This is the first human case of EEE reported in South Carolina since 2020. The last EEE-related death in the state occurred in 2003.

What is the fatality rate associated with severe EEE cases?

About 30% of severe EEE cases can result in death, and many survivors face long-term neurological issues.

What precautions should residents take to prevent mosquito bites?

Recommended precautions include wearing long sleeves and light-colored clothing and using EPA-registered repellents.

Chart: Key Facts about Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

Key Feature	Details
Transmission	Bite from infected mosquito
Contagious	Not contagious between people
Severity	30% fatality rate for severe cases
Last Death in SC	2003
First Human Case Since	2020
Current Mosquito Testing in SC	No EEE-positive mosquitoes found in Beaufort County
Horse Cases in SC	10 horses tested positive since July

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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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.

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.

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