SUSSEX COUNTY, N.J. (1010 WINS) — A New Jersey man has tested positive for a rare mosquito-borne disease, marking the second case the state has ever recorded, its health department said Wednesday.
The Sussex County resident, who is in his 60s, tested positive for Jamestown Canyon Virus after coming down with a fever and experiencing neurological symptoms last month, the department said in a press release.
The state first reported a human case of the virus in Sussex County in 2015, according to the department.
The virus generally circulates between deer and mosquitos, but the number of humans contracting it across the U.S. has increased in recent years due to an increase in testing, the release noted.
Most people who contract JCV experience mild symptoms, but “moderate-to-severe central nervous system involvement requiring hospitalization have been reported, including fatal infections,” the release said.
“If you or someone you know is experiencing flu-like symptoms, including fever and headache, contact your healthcare provider and let them know if you suspect a mosquito or tickborne illness,” Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli said in a statement.
“Spending time outdoors, whether walking, gardening, or playing with our dogs, is a good way to maintain physical and mental health, but it is important to take steps to prevent mosquito and tick bites, which are responsible for several diseases in New Jersey,” she added.
“When enjoying the outdoors, remember to use an EPA-registered insect repellent, cover skin with clothing when you can, and check yourself and your pets for ticks and quickly remove them with tweezers.”