The first case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis disease was confirmed in a horse, according to the Connecticut Department of Agriculture.

Officials said EEE was detected in an unvaccinated domestic horse in Fairfield County.

The viral disease is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes.

The DOE reminds people that EEE is not spread by horse-to-horse or horse-to-human contact.

The CDC has steps on its website for residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Officials say all neurologic diseases of domestic animals, such as EEE, West Nile virus and rabies, should be reported to the state veterinarian at 860-713-2505.

For more information on animals and animal health, visit the state website.