Richard Pawulski, a resident of Connecticut, tragically passed away at the age of 49 after a relentless five-year struggle with Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), a rare and severe brain-affecting virus contracted through a mosquito bite. According to the CDC, EEE has a mortality rate of approximately 30 percent, and survivors face serious long-term complications such as seizures and paralysis. The news of Richard’s illness came as a shock to his family, who believed they were leading a normal life, unprepared for the devastation a mosquito virus could inflict.
The nightmare for the Pawulski family began in August 2019, when Richard, after doing yard work, started feeling unwell. Following a mosquito bite, he soon experienced debilitating headaches and persistent vomiting. The severity of his condition necessitated emergency surgery aimed at alleviating swelling in the brain. Unfortunately, the surgery was complicated, resulting in Richard slipping into a two-month-long coma. This drastic turn of events was a stark reminder of how precarious life can be, as expressed by his daughter, Amellia Pawulski, who recognized how swiftly their lives changed.
The family faced an agonizing decision when doctors presented them with the option of removing Richard from life support, given the extensive brain damage he was believed to have sustained. However, in a surprising turn of events, just as they were about to make that fateful decision, Richard regained consciousness and began to communicate once again. Despite this brief respite, the following five years proved grueling for him and his family. Richard suffered from various health complications, including brain injuries, organ failures, seizures, and recurrent pneumonia, all of which severely impacted his quality of life.
Throughout his difficult journey, Richard maintained a positive outlook despite the overwhelming challenges he faced. His daughter, Amelia, recalled how her father insisted on finding joy in the small things, stating, “My day is great. I woke up. I can breathe on my own. I can talk on my own.” His ability to focus on the positives was a testament to his fighting spirit and served as an inspiration to those around him, including his family. However, his optimism did not shield him from the long-lasting effects of the disease, which ultimately took his life.
EEE is a serious viral infection currently circulating in certain regions like New York, transmitted primarily through infected mosquitoes. The lack of available vaccines or specific antiviral treatments for EEE complicates the situation, leaving public health officials on high alert. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn that, on average, only around 11 cases of EEE are reported annually in the United States, yet there have been 16 cases already confirmed in 2024, indicating a possible rise in occurrences. This alarming trend raises concerns about mosquito-borne illnesses and their potential threat to public health, especially in areas of increasing transmission.
The Pawulski family’s heartbreaking experience serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and the toll that mosquito-borne diseases can exact. While Richard’s battle with EEE has concluded, it underscores the importance of awareness and preventive measures against mosquito bites, as well as the necessity for ongoing research into vaccines and treatment options for such rare but impactful diseases. The memory of Richard Pawulski will endure as a reminder of the challenges posed by EEE and the resilience of those affected by its devastating consequences.