Beaufort County, September 20, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed the first human death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus in Beaufort County since 2003. The case highlights the serious threat posed by the virus, which is transmitted through infected mosquito bites. Health officials recommend preventive measures to reduce exposure to mosquitoes, including eliminating standing water and using repellents. Comprehensive mosquito control efforts are underway, but no EEE-positive mosquitoes have been found this year.
Beaufort County, South Carolina – The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed the first human death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus since 2003. The fatality occurred in Beaufort County, marking a significant public health concern in the region.
Dr. Edward Simmer, interim director of the Department of Public Health, stated that this case serves as a tragic reminder of the virus’s seriousness. EEE virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito and is not spread from person to person.
The symptoms of EEE can vary significantly. While some individuals may experience febrile illness without neurological symptoms, others might develop severe neurological issues. These conditions can include brain inflammation (encephalitis) or spinal cord inflammation (meningitis). Statistics indicate that approximately 30% of those who develop severe EEE die, and many survivors could face long-term neurological problems.
Currently, there are no vaccines or specific medications available to treat human infections of the EEE virus. This emphasizes the importance of preventive measures to reduce the risk of exposure to mosquito bites.
In response to the evolving public health situation, Beaufort County Mosquito Control has engaged in multiple mosquito spraying efforts. These efforts have included both truck-based and planned aerial spraying to ensure comprehensive coverage. Additionally, the county has ramped up its surveillance measures, which include mosquito trapping and laboratory analysis. However, it is worth noting that no EEE-positive mosquitoes have been detected this year near the location of the human case. In contrast, multiple EEE-positive horses have been identified in different counties, further highlighting the virus’s presence in the area.
To help mitigate the risk of mosquito bites, health officials recommend several strategies such as eliminating standing water, which is a common breeding ground for mosquitoes, wearing long sleeves and pants, and using EPA-registered mosquito repellents.
Additionally, the Department of Public Health encourages the public to adhere to the “7 Ts” guidelines for maintaining mosquito-free homes and yards. These guidelines include tips on managing water accumulation and using repellent effectively. The Department works in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to monitor mosquito-borne diseases through various testing and surveillance methods. Stored data will help inform public health recommendations moving forward.
Key Features of EEE
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Virus Name | Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) |
| Transmission | Infected mosquito bites |
| Symptoms | Febrile illness, neurological issues (encephalitis, meningitis) |
| Mortality Rate | Approximately 30% for severe cases |
| Preventive Measures | Eliminate standing water, wear protective clothing, use repellents |
| Current Treatment | No vaccines or specific medications available |
| Recent Surveillance | Spraying efforts and mosquito trapping |
FAQs
What is Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)?
EEE virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito and is not spread from person to person.
What are the symptoms of EEE?
Infection from the virus can cause febrile illness without neurological symptoms or lead to severe neurological issues due to brain inflammation (encephalitis) or spinal cord inflammation (meningitis).
What is the mortality rate for severe cases of EEE?
Approximately 30% of individuals who develop severe EEE die, with many survivors potentially experiencing long-term neurological problems.
Are there vaccines or medications for EEE?
There are currently no vaccines or specific medications to treat human infections of the virus.
What preventive measures can be taken to reduce the risk of mosquito bites?
Recommendations to reduce the risk of mosquito bites include eliminating standing water (which can breed mosquitoes), wearing long sleeves and pants, and using EPA-registered mosquito repellents.
How is the local government responding to the EEE case?
Beaufort County Mosquito Control has been actively involved in multiple mosquito spraying efforts, both via truck and planned aerial spraying for enhanced coverage, along with increased surveillance measures.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort County Reports First Confirmed Death from EEE Virus
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: South Carolina EEE Virus Death
- Wikipedia: Eastern Equine Encephalitis
- WJCL: Beaufort County EEE Virus Death
- Google Search: Eastern Equine Encephalitis
- Live 5 News: SC Confirms First Human EEE Death
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Eastern Equine Encephalitis
- Fox Carolina: Death Due to EEE Confirmed in SC
- Google News: EEE Virus
- Post and Courier: Lowcountry Mosquito EEE Fatality
- Google Scholar: Eastern Equine Encephalitis
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.
