Dear Residents,

New Jersey has confirmed its first West Nile virus (WNV) cases in humans for 2024. Two people, one over 70 and one under 18, tested positive for the disease in Union and Middlesex counties. They showed symptoms in early July, were hospitalized, and have now been discharged. Another person in Somerset County tested positive but didn’t show any symptoms.

This year, WNV cases appeared earlier than usual. It usually peaks in New Jersey between mid-August and mid-September. The state typically reports around 13 cases annually, with 14 cases last year. Health officials urge residents to guard against mosquito bites. They can carry WNV and other diseases. To protect yourself, use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants. Also, avoid being outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.

Officials advise residents to remove standing water around their homes. It can breed mosquitoes. This includes cleaning up areas like birdbaths, flowerpots, and gutters. WNV mainly causes mild illness, but it can be severe for older adults and those with weak immune systems. For more on preventing mosquito-borne diseases, visit the New Jersey Department of Health’s website HERE.

Resources:
 NJDOH – West Nile Virus Webpage: nj.gov/health/cd/topics/westnile.shtml

NJDOH – Interactive Vector-Borne Disease Dashboard: dashboards.doh.nj.gov/views/public_dashboard/Intro

NJDOH – Weekly Vector-Borne Surveillance Reports: nj.gov/health/cd/statistics/arboviral-stats

NJDEP – Mosquito Control Webpage: nj.gov/dep/mosquito

NJDA – Animal Health Webpage: nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/ah

Take care and be well,

NWBRHC Staff