Westchester Reporter

The Westchester County Health Department has issued a statement following the death of Steven Perry, a 41-year-old man from New Hampshire, due to Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). This rare but deadly virus is spread by mosquitoes.

Currently, no human cases of EEE have been reported in Westchester County, and no mosquito pools have tested positive for the virus. The County Health Department continues to monitor and test local mosquito populations for viruses such as EEE and West Nile Virus.

"We encourage all residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their families," the department stated. Recommended measures include eliminating standing water around homes, using mosquito repellents, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours from dusk to dawn.

The department also advises residents to prevent mosquitoes from breeding by dumping out standing water from flower pot drip trays, unused kiddie pools, and other places where water can collect after it rains. For those spending time outdoors between dusk and dawn, wearing repellents is recommended to avoid mosquito bites.

Residents are urged to report large areas of standing water on public property to the County Health Department at (914) 813-5000. Additional information on reducing the mosquito population near homes can be found at https://health.westchestergov.com/west-nile-virus.

The department also invites residents to subscribe to its weekly My Westchester email newsletter for updates on selected events.