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Mosquito-borne virus detected in Central Florida as summer begins
WESH • • health
Key Points:
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rare but potentially deadly mosquito-borne virus, has been detected in Central Florida, with sentinel chickens in Orange County testing positive and at least nine cases confirmed across Orange, Volusia, and Brevard counties in 2026.
- Although human infections are rare, EEE can cause severe neurological illness and death, prompting health officials to urge residents to take preventive measures such as draining standing water, maintaining screened doors and windows, and keeping yards well-maintained.
- Residents like Emily Browder in Brevard County report frequent mosquito problems and use natural repellents or DEET during outdoor activities to protect themselves.
- With no specific treatment, vaccine, or cure for EEE in humans, prevention remains the most effective defense, especially during the peak summer months when mosquito populations are highest.
