Tag: West Nile Virus

First case of West Nile Virus confirmed in New Jersey

PUBLISHED AUG 11, 2014 AT 4:37 PM (UPDATED AUG 11, 2014)

The Department of Health is reporting its first human case of West Nile Virus to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in an individual who is recovering at home after being hospitalized.

“Most human cases of West Nile virus typically appear from August through October. To prevent mosquito bites, residents should use insect repellant with DEET and, weather permitting, wear clothing with long sleeves and long pants,” said Health Commissioner Mary O’Dowd.

The confirmed case involves a 49-year-old Gloucester County resident who developed symptoms including fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, rash and meningitis. The individual was hospitalized and is recovering at home. The resident was likely exposed to the virus while doing yard work and other outdoor activities at home.

West Nile Virus has been identified among mosquitos in the following 16 counties: Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Union and Warren.

Additional protection measures include:

Maintaining screen doors and windows

Using insect netting on infant carriers and strollers

Removing and/or draining outdoor containers with standing water

In 2013, there were 12 cases of WNV in New Jersey, including two fatalities. In 2012 there were 48 cases and six fatalities, and in 2011 there were seven cases and no fatalities.

– See more at: http://spartaindependent.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20140811/NEWS01/140819991/First-case-of-West-Nile-Virus-confirmed-in-New-Jersey#sthash.YSYXRUt9.dpuf