Orono, Maine detected Jamestown Canyon Virus in local mosquitoes. This marks the first positive mosquito sample in Maine for 2024.
The Maine CDC notified town officials of the discovery. Jamestown Canyon Virus can cause fever, headache, and fatigue in humans.
First Human Case Identified
Maine identified its first locally-acquired human case in 2017. The state recorded its first Jamestown Canyon-associated death in 2018.
In 2023, three mosquito groups tested positive, but no human cases occurred. Since 2000, the CDC has reported 228 human cases of Jamestown Canyon Virus in the United States.
No Vaccine or Treatment
Currently, no vaccine exists for Jamestown Canyon Virus. Doctors have no specific treatment for the illness.
Patients typically receive supportive care for symptoms. The lack of targeted treatment emphasizes the importance of prevention.
Other Mosquito-Borne Viruses Present
Maine mosquitoes can also transmit Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile Virus. These viruses are rare but potentially fatal.
EEE has a 30% mortality rate in humans. West Nile Virus causes severe disease in about 1 in 150 infected people.
Transmission Limited to Mosquitoes
These viruses cannot spread from person to person. Animals cannot transmit the viruses to humans.
Mosquito bites remain the sole transmission method. This fact guides prevention strategies focused on mosquito control.
Symptoms Range in Severity
Many infected individuals remain asymptomatic. Some experience flu-like symptoms.
Severe cases can develop encephalitis or meningitis. The CDC estimates that 1 in 100 Jamestown Canyon Virus infections results in severe disease.
Prevention Through Personal Protection
Officials recommend wearing long, loose clothing. Using EPA-approved repellents can deter mosquitoes.
Extra caution during dawn and dusk helps reduce exposure. These measures can reduce bite risk by up to 90%.
Home Environment Mosquito Control
Installing screens on windows and doors prevents mosquito entry. Draining standing water eliminates breeding sites.
Regular yard maintenance reduces mosquito habitats. These actions can reduce local mosquito populations by up to 70%.
Travel Precautions Advised
Travelers should take steps to prevent mosquito bites. This includes using bed nets in endemic areas.
Checking for travel advisories before trips is crucial. The WHO reports that mosquito-borne diseases affect over 700 million people annually worldwide.
Equine Vaccination Recommended
Horse owners should vaccinate against EEE and WNV. These viruses can cause severe illness in horses.
EEE has a 90% mortality rate in infected horses. Annual vaccination can reduce equine infection risk by up to 95%.
