Deadly Virus Found in Central New York Mosquitoes

Break out the bug spray and don't skimp on it. Health department officials found the sometimes deadly Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus, commonly found and transmitted through mosquitoes, in Oswego County.

The Oswego County Health Department confirmed on their Facebook page that mosquito pools in West Monroe tested positive for the virus earlier this week.

Mosquitoes carry the virus after they feed on infected birds, and then transmit it to humans through bites, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. EEE symptoms usually kick in between 4 to 10 days after someone is bitten and can include chills, fever, and tiredness, according the CDC. In some cases, though, people don't show symptoms. EEE causes brain swelling and can lead to death in one-third of cases.

Unfortunately, the CDC says there is no human vaccine against the virus, but they encourage people who may be infected to visit a healthcare provider and get tested. Prevention is key to fighting the disease, which means bug spray that contains DEET and layers of clothing that cover exposed skin will be our best friends. The Oswego County Health Department also encourages draining standing water around homes to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.