Rising Fears: The Latest on Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Monkeypox, and School Closures
Increasing Concerns Over Three Deadly Diseases
Health Crisis Fears Rising
As we approach November, there is a noticeable rise in news stories about deadly diseases, causing alarm among the general public. This time, however, it's not just one major disease causing concern. Three different diseases are currently causing fear and panic.
When faced with the threat of a deadly outbreak, people are more likely to accept measures they would normally reject during less stressful times.
Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus
In the Northeast, the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus is causing a great deal of worry. After a confirmed case in Massachusetts, residents have been advised to limit their time outdoors. Now, confirmed cases have also appeared in Vermont and New Hampshire.
After an 80-year-old man in Massachusetts tested positive for the rare virus, health concerns were raised. The virus was then found in mosquitoes across the state, leading to warnings for residents to limit their outdoor activities. The virus has since been detected in neighboring states, with cases appearing in Vermont and New Hampshire.
This virus has also been found in horses in eight New York counties, meaning it's now present in at least four different states. This is particularly worrying given the virus's high death rate in humans. Approximately 30% of those infected with the virus die, and survivors often suffer from neurological problems. There are currently no vaccines or medicines available to treat or prevent the disease.
New York City's Response
In response to fears of Eastern Equine Encephalitis and an outbreak of West Nile virus, New York City is planning to spray pesticides to help prevent the spread of mosquitoes. This decision comes after Dr Anthony Fauci, former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director, was hospitalized with West Nile virus. As a result, the entire city will be doused with potentially hazardous chemicals in an attempt to kill the disease-carrying mosquitoes.
Monkeypox Strain Mutations
Meanwhile, scientists are warning that the new Monkeypox strain is mutating faster than anticipated. This is causing numerous unknowns about the virus itself, its severity, and how it is transmitting, which complicates the response. The outbreak is currently devastating the Democratic Republic of Congo, with the number of cases and the death toll continuing to rise.
There have now been confirmed cases in several neighboring countries, and travelers have brought it to Europe and Asia. Alarmingly, this new strain often spreads without any sexual contact at all, and children are being infected in large numbers. Experts are theorizing that this may be due to children's less developed immune systems.
School Closures Due to COVID
Despite previous agreements to avoid such measures, schools in Alabama and Tennessee have been temporarily shut down due to a high number of children catching COVID. Currently, there are numerous news stories about a major COVID comeback, but most Americans remain skeptical due to the virus's low death rate.
Preparing for Future Pandemics
However, it's only a matter of time before a global pandemic with a high death rate emerges. When that day comes, the panic experienced over the past few years will seem minor in comparison.
Bottom Line
With the rise of these three deadly diseases, it's clear that we need to be prepared for future health crises. It's crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our communities. What are your thoughts on these emerging health threats? Share this article with your friends to keep them informed. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, delivered every day at 6pm.