A resident of Hampstead, New Hampshire has tragically passed away after testing positive for eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus, according to state health authorities. The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services announced on Tuesday that this infection marked the state's first case of EEE in a decade.

The deceased individual, identified only as an adult, had been hospitalized due to severe central nervous system symptoms related to the mosquito-borne infection. Reports indicate that approximately one-third of individuals who develop encephalitis from the EEE virus ultimately succumb to the disease, while survivors often face long-term mental and physical disabilities.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there are typically around 11 human cases of EEE recorded each year in the country. Back in 2014, New Hampshire witnessed three cases of the virus in humans, two of which resulted in fatalities.

New Hampshire's health department has highlighted that this rare yet serious virus has also been detected in one horse and multiple mosquito batches throughout the state this summer. Additionally, neighboring states such as Massachusetts and Vermont have reported cases in humans.

The EEE virus can manifest flu-like symptoms and may progress to a severe neurological disease characterized by inflammation of the brain and the membranes surrounding the spinal cord. In light of the recent developments, Dr. Benjamin Chan, the state epidemiologist, has urged all individuals to take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites, particularly when outdoors.

"We believe there is an elevated risk for EEE infections this year in New England given the positive mosquito samples identified. The risk will continue into the fall until there is a hard frost that kills the mosquitoes. Everybody should take steps to prevent mosquito bites when they are outdoors," emphasized Dr. Chan.

While New Hampshire mourns the loss of this resident, efforts are underway to raise awareness about the potential dangers of the EEE virus and to educate the public about preventive measures. State health authorities will continue monitoring the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of vigilant mosquito control measures until a hard frost brings relief from the threat of EEE infections.