the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Haskell NJ, A viral outbreak has left six children dead and 12 others sick at a New Jersey rehabilitation facility, according to health officials. The New Jersey Department of Health, says there have been 18 cases of adenovirus among pediatric residents at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation, located in Haskell.
Adenoviruses are a family of viruses that can infect the tissue linings of the respiratory tract, eyes, intestines, urinary tract and nervous system. They are a common cause of illnesses ranging from a cold to bronchitis to pneumonia and even pink eye, particularly in young children. The children at Wanaque appear to have been more susceptible to serious infections due to their other medical conditions.
Governor Phil Murphy commented on the Adenovirus Outbreak at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation
“I am heartbroken by the news that several children have lost their lives in an adenovirus outbreak at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation, and pray for the full recovery of the other children impacted. I have been briefed by Dr. Elnahal, who has assured me that the Department of Health has recommended vital measures to enhance protections against the further spread of infection and will continue its active on-site surveillance. I am confident that the steps being taken by state and local officials will minimize the impact to all those who remain at the facility, including patients and employees.”
