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* Researchers have identified a set of receptors shared across human, mosquito, and other animal cells for the eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) and two related viruses, a crucial first step for developing preventive and curative treatments.
* In experiments with cells and mouse models with a related virus, the scientists were able to prevent infection and disease progression using decoy molecules to hamper viral entry into cells.
* In a 2019 outbreak of eastern equine encephalitis (EEE, or triple E) in New England, 30 percent of infected people died and half of those who survived had long-term neurologic damage.
* Done between major outbreaks, this type of research into highly pathogenic viruses with pandemic potential can help improve preparedness for future outbreaks.