Which animal can transmit Eastern Equine Encephalitis to humans?

Culiseta melanura is a species of mosquito that is known to play a crucial role in the transmission of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) to humans. This particular mosquito is primarily a vector for the virus, which means it can carry and transmit the virus through its bites. EEE is a viral disease that can lead to severe neurological illness and is most commonly associated with rural areas where these mosquitoes thrive, often in wetland habitats.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis is primarily maintained in a cycle involving birds and mosquitoes. Culiseta melanura feeds on birds, particularly non-migratory birds, which serve as the natural reservoir for the virus. When these mosquitoes bite infected birds, they can become carriers, and when they subsequently bite humans, they can transmit the virus, potentially leading to illness.

Other options, like house cats, non-migratory birds, and pigeons, do not have the same direct role in the transmission of EEE to humans as Culiseta melanura does. House cats are not vectors for the disease, while birds, although important in the cycle of the virus, do not directly transmit it to humans. Pigeons also do not play a significant role in this specific transmission cycle.