September 25, 2025

First Death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis in Beaufort County

Beaufort County, September 25, 2025

News Summary

The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed the first human death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in over 20 years in Beaufort County. The infection, transmitted via mosquito bites, can cause severe illness and has already prompted increased mosquito control measures in the area. Local authorities have begun spraying efforts and continue to monitor mosquito populations to protect residents from this potentially deadly virus. Comprehensive guidelines for prevention, particularly for vulnerable populations, have been provided.

Beaufort County, South Carolina – The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed the death of an individual in Beaufort County from Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). This marks the first confirmed death from EEE in over 20 years, with the last fatality occurring in 2003. The current case also represents the first human instance of EEE reported in South Carolina since 2020.

The EEE virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, and it cannot be spread from person to person. This infection may lead to febrile illness, and severe complications such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the linings of the brain and spinal cord).

Beaufort County Mosquito Control routinely monitors the local mosquito population for viruses that can be transmitted to humans. Following the recent death, the county took immediate action by conducting truck-based spraying and plans to utilize helicopter spraying for wider coverage. Increased trapping and laboratory analysis of mosquitoes will continue, along with additional treatment missions aimed at targeting mosquito populations in the area.

In general, mosquitoes breed in standing water, with even a small amount of water being sufficient for their reproduction. The DPH advises residents to follow the “7 Ts” for mosquito prevention, which includes practical tips to help keep homes and yards mosquito-free.

Statistics from the DPH highlight the severe nature of EEE, indicating that approximately 30% of individuals who develop severe symptoms die within 10 days. Additionally, many survivors may experience long-term neurological issues. Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments available for EEE in humans, leaving prevention as the best response.

Majority of cases of EEE in humans occur in areas close to freshwater hardwood swamps—environments that are conducive to mosquito populations. Those most at risk include individuals over 50 years old and young children under 15 years, who are more susceptible to developing serious neurological complications.

Symptoms of EEE can appear four to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. These symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes, and drowsiness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends preventive measures such as wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors and using mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

This year in South Carolina alone, there have been 10 reported cases of EEE-positive horses across various counties. The South Carolina DPH collaborates with the CDC to monitor and test for mosquito-borne diseases and responds promptly to human cases. More detailed information on mosquito prevention and protective measures against bites can be accessed on the DPH website.

FAQ

What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)?

EEE virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito and is not transmissible from person to person.

What are the symptoms of EEE?

Symptoms can begin four to 10 days after a mosquito bite, including fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes, and drowsiness.

How severe is EEE?

Approximately 30% of people who develop severe EEE die within 10 days, with many survivors experiencing long-term neurological issues.

How is EEE prevented?

The DPH recommends following the “7 Ts” for mosquito prevention and wearing long sleeves and long pants, along with using mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Where do EEE cases typically occur?

The majority of EEE-human cases occur near freshwater hardwood swamps, where environments promote mosquito populations.

Who is most vulnerable to EEE?

The most vulnerable populations include those over 50 and children under 15, who are more likely to develop severe neurological complications.

Key Features of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

Feature	Detail
Transmission	Through bite of infected mosquitoes; not person-to-person.
Symptoms Onset	4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite.
Mortality Rate	Approximately 30% of severe cases within 10 days.
Vulnerable Populations	Individuals over 50 and children under 15.
Treatment	No vaccines or specific treatments available.
Prevention Tips	Follow the “7 Ts,” wear protective clothing, and apply repellent.

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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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