Primary prevention
There is no licensed vaccine for the prevention of eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) infection for use in humans. Prevention primarily depends on personal protective measures to reduce exposure to infected mosquitoes.[41]
Natural setting
Avoidance of mosquito bites while in endemic areas is the primary means of prevention.
Wearing appropriate clothing (e.g., long-sleeved shirts and long trousers), using insect repellent (e.g., containing DEET [N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide], icaridin, IR3535, 2-undecanone, or oil of lemon eucalyptus), and using mosquito nets can help reduce the risk of mosquito bites. Coating clothes, nets, and outdoor gear in permethrin is recommended for added protection. Staying indoors (ideally with air conditioning) during periods of the day when mosquitoes are most active can also minimise the risk of mosquito bites.[41][42]
Laboratory setting
Animal studies have demonstrated that aerosol transmission of EEEV, in addition to subcutaneous injection, is possible.[38][39] Handling high virus concentrations, mouth pipetting, and engaging in activities that generate aerosols (e.g., tissue homogenisation, centrifugation) are risk factors for occupational infection.
To prevent transmission via the aerosol route, materials infected with EEEV should be handled in a biosafety level 3 laboratory with appropriate use of respirators by laboratory personnel.[19][43]
Secondary prevention
EEEV infection is a notifiable disease. It is not transmitted through direct contact with infected equines or humans. No post-exposure prophylaxis is available.
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