With Earliest Detection of the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) Virus in 20 Years, Experts Recommend Insect Repellent as Key to Protection

July 28, 2020

Natrapel® insect repellent offers solutions with CDC-recommended ingredients to repel mosquitoes that may carry EEE as the potentially fatal mosquito-borne virus peaks in summer months

LITTLETON, N.H. (July 28, 2020) – The United States saw a resurgence of EEE in 2019, with an uptick in human cases of the deadly virus in the Northeast, Gulf Coast and Upper Midwest. Earlier this month, Massachusetts reported the first EEE-positive mosquitoes–the earliest the virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Massachusetts in 20 years according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. As the height of mosquito season is upon us this summer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends insect repellents with active ingredients like Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like EEE.

“At Natrapel, we are proud to provide safe and effective DEET-free mosquito repellents that provide a line of defense from mosquitoes that may carry the EEE virus,” says Katie Jones, brand manager for Natrapel. “We test and develop Natrapel products in the harshest mosquito conditions here in New Hampshire, so you and your family members can have confidence in the repellent you are using. Natrapel’s trusted OLE solutions can help make your outdoor adventures worry-free.”

The EEE virus, spread only through mosquito bites, leads to swelling of the brain. Other symptoms associated with EEE include high fever, muscle pain, altered mental status, meningeal irritation, and photophobia. Long-term effects of EEE infection include paralysis and seizures. Children and the elderly are particularly susceptible to encephalitic infection. As people spend more time outside while trying to maintain social distancing guidelines due to COVID-19, experts call for awareness around the potential dangers of EEE infection.

“Despite research funding reductions due to COVID-19, it is important for public health departments across the country to recognize the potential severity of EEE infection and continue to provide adequate resources to accurately monitor and forecast the early signs of EEE virus transmission,” says Dr. Jonathan Day, professor of medical entomology at the University of Florida.  “July, August, and September are historically the three months of the year where we see an uptick in human and equine EEE cases, so we are continuing to encourage those spending time outdoors to stay vigilant in protecting themselves with an effective insect repellent.”

Recently featured in Consumer Reports, Natrapel® products provide protection from mosquitoes infected with the EEE virus with plant-based DEET-free active ingredients registered with the Environmental Protections Agency (EPA) and recommended by the CDC.

Natrapel^® Lemon Eucalyptus 6 oz. Eco-Spray® (MSRP $11.99): The environmentally friendly 6 ounce continuous spray provides even, effortless coverage without any ozone-depleting propellants. The plant-based, DEET-free insect repellent uses an Eco-Spray® delivery system that releases a fine mist at any angle for easy application.

Natrapel^® Lemon Eucalyptus 3.4 oz. Pump Spray (MSRP $6.99): The 3.4 ounce portable, TSA-approved pump spray bottle features a plant-based bug spray that effectively repels mosquitoes for up to six hours. The DEET-free insect repellent features the only naturally derived ingredient recommended by the CDC and is safe to use on gear and clothing.

Natrapel products are available for purchase nationwide at select retailers including Sportsman’s Warehouse and online at Amazon.com and Sportsmans.com.

Please direct all media inquiries to Account Manager Ethan Peck at ethan.peck@rygr.us.

About Natrapel®: Natrapel is a leading producer of safe and effective DEET-free insect repellents. Using only CDC-recommended active ingredients like oil of lemon eucalyptus, Natrapel products provide families complete protection from disease-spreading insects and won’t harm gear like DEET-based repellents. www.natrapel.com

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