New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services has confirmed that a 50-year old man from Hamilton Township, Mercer County is the first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in the state. The patient has not been admitted to hospital and is recovering satisfactorily at home.
New Jersey authorities stress that this case is a reminder to everybody in the state to take precautions against mosquito bites.
Acting Commissioner Dr. Tina Tan, said:
"West Nile virus is seen most often during New Jersey's mosquito season in late summer and early fall. The Department urges everyone to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites by applying insect repellent wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when possible."
West Nile virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito - it is a viral infection. The mosquito becomes infected when it feeds on infected birds, it then bites humans and other animals, etc.
A considerable proportion of infected humans have no symptoms and are unaware of their WNV status. If symptoms do emerge, the patient may experience fever, headache, body aches, and nausea - sometimes the lymph glands may swell and there may be a rash on the chest, stomach and back. In more severe cases, there may be a very high temperature, neck stiffness and encephalitis (the brain swells) - this can lead to coma, convulsions, and even death. Symptoms emerge from three to fifteen days after the person has been bitten by the mosquito.
Authorities in New Jersey say they have detected West Nile Virus among mosquitoes and birds in 21 counties in the state. Cumberland, Salem and Atlantic counties seem to be clear so far.
People are being urged to check their properties carefully and to remove any item where stagnant water can accumulate, such as clogged gutters, old tires, flowerpots, buckets and holes in the ground where puddles can form - these are perfect breeding grounds for the WNV transmitting mosquito.
If you apply insect repellent to your clothing or exposed skin, make sure you follow the instructions on the labeling carefully. If you can, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when you go outdoors. Be aware that mosquitoes tend to come out in larger numbers during dawn, dusk and in the evening.
New Jersey had 30 cases of WNV last year, including two deaths.