Rhode Island resident dies of EEE; first fatal human case since 2007, DPH says

A Massachusetts woman has died of a mosquito-borne illness caused by Eastern Equine Encephalitis or EEE. Three more people have also contracted the virus in the state.

WEST WARWICK, R.I. — The Rhode Island Department of Health has confirmed a person who contracted Eastern Equine Encephalitis has died.

The person, who officials say is an individual in their 50s, is the state's first death from EEE since 2007.

The victim was listed in critical condition since officials confirmed the case on August 30.

Aerial spraying is scheduled for Monday night in more than two dozen Rhode Island communities.

>> Towns piling up anti-mosquito precautions amid panic over EEE cases