The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Public Health Services (DPHS) this week announced the beginning of statewide Eastern Equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance season. The bird testing portion of the season runs from June 1 to October 31. Last year, seven people tested positive for EEE, with two deaths. Additionally, 54 birds, nine horses, four alpacas, a llama and 15 mosquito pools tested positive for the disease. 46 birds and a mosquito pool tested positive for WNV.

“We have seen just how dangerous Eastern Equine encephalitis and West Nile virus can be,” said DHHS Commissioner John Stephen. “Everyone across New Hampshire should know that we are entering the season in which there is a risk for getting these diseases. However, prevention and knowledge can protect you from both EEE and West Nile. Go out and enjoy the summer, but remember common sense preventive measures. The last thing we want to see is a season as severe as last year, but everyone should know that there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.”

Eastern equine encephalitis and WNV are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. 

Individuals who identify a bird that has died or is dying for reasons other than trauma (i.e. flew into an object or attacked by an animal) should contact their local health or animal control officer. Residents of municipalities without a designated animal control officer or health officer should call the West Nile virus information line at 866/273-NILE (6453). After normal business hours, citizens can leave a voice message that will be answered the next business day