Head of Infectious Diseases says EEE vaccine is still years away

This year has seen a huge uptick in the number of Eastern Equine Encephalitis cases, the rare mosquito-borne virus that can lead to death.

We took our concerns directly to the head of Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health. Officials tell us they typically see a handful of cases each year, but this year is unusual, and they're working on a vaccine to help.

"Even though the occurrence of it is not very many people, when it does occur it can be really very serious. That's what's causing the concern now," said Dr. Anthony Fauci.

Fauci says EEE has spiked to nearly 30 cases this year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says as of Tuesday, about one-third of the cases are in Massachusetts, with a total of seven deaths nationwide.

"About a third of the people who get neuroinvasive disease actually die and many who recover have lasting neurological defects," said Fauci.

Cases have sprung up in other states, too, including North Carolina and Tennessee. It's even prompted Senator Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey to write a letter to Fauci requesting the latest federal research. Fauci plans to share with them what we've learned, which is that there is a vaccine that has been in the works for a few years.

"We are right now going from the concept that it works in an animal model to testing it in very early tests in humans," he said.

That will take at least a few years.

As for this year's uptick, the doctor points to factors that draw mosquitoes, like swampy areas and warm weather. Plus, he adds it's been a good breeding year for mosquitoes, too.

What can help? Wearing insect repellent that contains DEET, and clothing that covers your body.

Cox Media Group