A New Hampshire man named Joe Casey is in critical condition after being bitten by a mosquito, leading to the diagnosis of three mosquito-borne viruses, including eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). Casey, 54, is currently hospitalized at Exeter Hospital, where doctors have confirmed that he tested positive for EEE, West Nile virus, and St. Louis encephalitis. However, medical experts, including those from the CDC, are uncertain which of these viruses is causing his severe illness.
Casey’s symptoms began in early August, and his condition has since worsened, resulting in significant brain swelling that has left him nearly unable to communicate. His sister-in-law, Angela Barker, expressed the family’s distress, describing the situation as terrifying and gut-wrenching, especially given how sudden and severe his decline in health has been. The family is deeply concerned about the long recovery process that lies ahead.
In response to Casey’s condition, his family has rallied around him, with his wife, Kim, and their four children providing support. They have also created an online fundraising page to help with the anticipated costs of long-term care and rehabilitation, which will require 24-hour care. The community has shown a strong outpouring of support for the family during this difficult time.
The danger of mosquito-borne illnesses in New Hampshire was highlighted by another recent case where 41-year-old Steven Perry from Hampstead, N.H., died after contracting EEE. The state’s Department of Health and Human Services has identified at least one mosquito pool in Kensington that has tested positive for EEE, prompting the town to raise the threat level to high and notify residents to take precautions.
Casey’s family is urging the public to take the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses seriously by using protective measures such as wearing bug spray and covering up when outdoors. They hope to raise awareness that these infections can affect anyone and emphasize the importance of being vigilant to prevent such tragedies.
