State officials say a resident of Old Lyme died after contracting eastern equine encephalitis.

This most recent death comes after a patient from East Lyme died last week.

The fatal cases of EEE are the first in six years, and only the second and third in state history.

Health officials say most of the mosquitoes that tested positive for EEE this season have been in southeastern Connecticut.

Although the virus is rare, officials say one in three people who contract EEE will die, and there is no treatment. 

It takes four to 10 days after being bitten to develop symptoms.

The symptoms include headaches, vomiting and shortness of breath.

Officials say the public can take preventative measures by using mosquito repellant.

"Wearing repellent, protective clothing, especially at dusk and the early evening, and limiting time outside in the early evening," Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz says.

Officials say the mosquito population is beginning to shrink, but is still expected to be active until the first heavy frost.

 

Health officials: East Lyme resident dies after testing positive for EEE 

East Lyme woman first to contract EEE in state this season