La Crosse Encephalitis

Definition

A rare disease spread by infected mosquitoes that affects the central nervous system.

Etymology

Named after the city of La Crosse, Wisconsin, where it was first identified in 1963.

Example

La Crosse encephalitis is often seen in children under 16 years of age.

Related Terms

• Arbovirus
• Mosquito-borne disease
• Neurological disease

Usage Notes

Early diagnosis can be difficult as symptoms are often mild and may be mistaken for other illnesses.