Definition

Eastern equine encephalitis is caused by a virus (EEEV). The symptoms can range from a short bout of feverishness to a serious form that causes a life-threatening inflammation of the brain and meninges. The disease is rare in humans. People do not contract the disease following contact with a sick horse, but rather after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Wild birds are the natural hosts of the virus and mosquitoes become infected by biting them. 

Did you know?

• No case in a human has been reported to date in Québec since this disease became reportable in 2003.

• Eastern equine encephalitis reappeared in Québec in 2008 when an outbreak occurred in horses and emus in four Québec regions: Lanaudière, Montérégie, Estrie and Mauricie-Centre-du-Québec.

• The virus is not transmitted directly from one person to another.

Are you a health professional?

If you would like to learn more, please visit the Eastern equine encephalitis page on the Web site of the Director of Public Health for the Montréal region. (in French only)

Practical advice

What can you do to protect yourself?

• Use the "barrier method" of protection against mosquito bites, i.e., well-maintained window screens, protective clothing, insect repellent.
• Get rid of pools of stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.
• Visit the Web site of the Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation for information on prevention and protection measures for animals. (in French only) 

Whom should you contact to get help? 

Call Info-Santé at 811 or see a doctor. 

Where can you find additional, credible information?

Public Health Agency of Canada
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention