2 people test positive for West Nile virus in New Jersey: health officials
NEW JERSEY (PIX11) – At least two people in New Jersey tested positive for West Nile virus this year, the New Jersey Department of Health announced on Thursday.
One patient was over the age of 70 and the other was under 18 years old, according to health officials. They're from Union and Middlesex counties and started seeing symptoms the first week of July.
Both patients were hospitalized and later discharged, health officials said.
Most West Nile virus cases happen between mid-August and mid-September. The state is seeing higher than average West Nile virus activity this year, per health officials.
Most people infected with West Nile virus are asymptomatic or get mildly ill with a fever. More severe symptoms include a severe headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness and paralysis, according to health officials.
Some cases of West Nile virus could lead to death, per health officials.
To protect against West Nile virus, people should wear EPA-registered insect repellant, avoid being outdoors during dusk and dawn (when mosquitos are most active) and wear long sleeves and pants.
You should also consider getting mosquito netting for cribs, strollers and baby carriers and make sure all your door and window screens are well-fitted.
Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here.