CONCORD, N.H. (AP) – Tests have confirmed that a Londonderry woman and a 4-year-old Goffstown boy have Eastern equine encephalitis, the state Department of Health and Human Services said Friday. And evidence of the disease is spreading, the department said.

The two patients are still in the hospital in stable condition.

The disease, also known as Triple-E, usually doesn’t affect people, but can cause flu-like symptoms, and in rare cases, coma and death.

In addition to those cases, health officials said they have found evidence of the disease in Pittsfield and Brentwood. Two birds tested positive for Triple-E in those communities. On Thursday, birds tested positive for the disease in Canterbury, Hooksett and Franklin. On Friday, officials said test results were positive for the disease in a bird found in Candia.

The Health Department says people can protect themselves from mosquitoes by getting rid of standing water, wearing long sleeves and pants and using mosquito repellent.

“We are continuing to monitor this situation,” Commissioner John Stephen said. “This is not a reason for panic. We want our citizens to know how to avoid Triple-E and enjoy their summer. simple prevention works – no mosquito bites, no Triple-E.”