US man dies five years after mosquito bite caused a deadly infection: The full story

A Connecticut man, Richard Pawulski, passed away on Monday, five years after being bitten by an infected mosquito in his backyard, according to a report by the New York Post.

The 48-year-old died due to complications from Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). In 2019, after doing yard work in his backyard, Richard suddenly fell ill. The next day, he complained of severe headaches and began vomiting yellow bile.

He was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery to reduce swelling in his brain, but complications from the procedure worsened his condition, leaving the Polish immigrant in a coma for two months. Doctors later determined that he had contracted the EEE virus.


Remarkably, Richard emerged from the coma and started speaking. However, the recovery was short-lived.

Over the next five years, he endured a series of health setbacks, including a traumatic brain injury, liver and kidney issues, seizures, and recurrent bouts of pneumonia. He spent his final years moving between hospitals and nursing homes, battling these severe complications.

What Is EEE, Its Symptoms, and How to Protect Yourself?

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many people infected with EEE do not develop symptoms. For those who do, symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes, and drowsiness.

Between 2003 and 2023, the United States reported at least 196 cases of EEE, with 176 resulting in hospitalization and 79 fatalities. Health experts recommend using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and treating clothing and gear to reduce the risk, as advised by ABC News.