What is the primary threat to infants and small children from Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE)?

The primary threat to infants and small children from Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE) is neurological complications. WEE is a viral infection that can lead to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), which poses a significant risk, especially for young children whose nervous systems are still developing. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like signs to more severe neurological manifestations, including seizures, confusion, and coma. Infants and small children are particularly vulnerable due to their immature immune responses, which can result in more severe outcomes when they contract the virus.

Other options such as severe dehydration, respiratory distress, and allergic reactions are not the primary concerns associated with WEE. While these conditions can be serious in their own right or related to other illnesses, they do not specifically stem from WEE infection. Dehydration might occur if a child experiences fever or vomiting, and respiratory distress could be a consequence of various infections, but the core issues tied directly to WEE are the neurological impacts it can have, highlighting the critical nature of understanding and controlling this disease in vulnerable populations.