7 died of a rare disease transmitted by mosquitoes

At least seven people died from Eastern equine encephalitis, a rare disease transmitted by mosquitoes. At least 27 people were infected in six states.

The last reported deaths were recorded in Connecticut and Massachusetts. The Massachusetts State Department of Health said that 75 communities now have a critical or high risk of contracting this rare but deadly disease called EEE.

The virus transmitted by mosquitoes causes severe inflammation of the brain in about 2% of infected adults and 6% of infected children. EEEs are rare and affect about five to ten people a year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But this year, Massachusetts alone has notified 10 cases and Michigan eight. One of them is the father of Ronna Bagent, Stan Zalner.

"Nobody really knew what was wrong with him," Bagent said.

Zalner was hospitalized three weeks ago, just before her 79th birthday. Tests this week confirmed that he was carrying the virus and that he remains in a coma.

"This is only a tiny mosquito that can have horrible neurological effects," Bagent said.

Residents of affected areas are asked to consider canceling outdoor activities in the evening or early morning, which are peak mosquito hours. Massachusetts authorities have asked residents to use an insect repellent this weekend as weather forecasts predict unusually hot weather.

Although the disease is rare, the death rate is high at around 30%, and many of those recovering still have neurological problems. Fortunately, the end of the mosquito season usually comes with the first wave of cold, and this should be imminent.