Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus: A Case Report and Brief Literature Review of Current Therapeutic and Preventative Strategies.

Abstract

Background: Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is a rare mosquito-borne illness exhibiting rapid neurological deterioration and permanent damage. Despite its >30% mortality and >60% long-term neurological damage, EEEV has no approved antiviral medication or vaccination. This report uniquely aims to describe a rare case of EEEV and provide a current literature review of therapeutic and preventative options from the clinical perspective to guide clinicians and public health workers, along with informing them about its impact and current knowledge gaps. Methods: A retrospective chart review of the electronic medical record was performed for a patient's 10-day hospital admission in July 2021. In addition, PubMed was searched using relevant keywords for a literature review of EEEV. Results: A 61-year-old woman presented with dysarthria and right-sided facial droop. Acute ischemic stroke was ruled out, and empiric intravenous (IV) antibiotics were initiated for possible infectious etiology. The patient developed worsening mental status and fever and was intubated, with antibiotics broadened with concern for meningitis along with tick-borne illness. The patient remained encephalopathic and febrile, and lumbar serologies were consistent with viral meningoencephalitis or acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Several days after collection, quantitative antibody testing returned positive for EEEV. The patient was pronounced dead on hospital day 10. On review of the literature regarding EEEV, supportive care and prevention remain the cornerstone of management. Although early IV immunoglobulin and high-dose steroids have shown potential as treatments to reduce morbidity and mortality, no vaccines have been approved to date. Conclusion: Prospective trials and further investigations into treatment and preventative options may be useful in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with EEEV.