Hunterdon West Nile virus case prompts county to step up mosquito control

FLEMINGTON - Hunterdon County is stepping up its efforts to control the county's mosquito population after a county man was confirmed with the first case of West Nile virus this year in New Jersey.

The man, in his 70s, became sick on June 21, according to the state Department of Health. The man, whose name and hometown were not identified, had symptoms like those of meningitis and was hospitalized for several days.  He is now recovering at home.  

“The County Health Department, earlier this week, interviewed the infected individual to determine a travel history and other risk factors," said Hunterdon County Health Officer Karen DeMarco. "Although it appears the case may have acquired West Nile Virus out of county or out of state, it is important for all residents to avoid mosquito bites to prevent West Nile Virus." 

The Mosquito and Vector Control Division of the Hunterdon County Health Department routinely tests mosquito samples throughout the county, and no samples have tested positive for West Nile Virus in the 2019 season, DeMarco said.

READ: West Nile virus: Here's how you can reduce your mosquito risk

After a record number of West Nile virus cases in New Jersey last year, the mosquito-borne virus is off to an early start this year, with the first case confirmed earlier than ever before.  

“This is the earliest a case of West Nile virus has been detected in New Jersey," said Dr. Shereef Elnahal, the state health commissioner. “It is important that residents take steps to protect themselves by using repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants and avoiding the outdoors during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.” 

There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus, DeMarco said, adding it is important to note that the disease cannot spread from person to person. West Nile is transmitted by the bite of a mosquito that has bitten an infected bird. It is not transmitted directly from birds to humans.  

READ: What you need to know about West Nile

To avoid mosquito bites, the Hunterdon County Health Department recommends the following measures:

• Because mosquitos can breed in a small amount of standing water, eliminate standing water on your property and in your neighborhood.
• Empty birdbaths at least once a week and be vigilant about clearing water from toys, garbage cans, flower pots and other areas where water will collect. More suggestions about mosquito-proofing your yard are available at at https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/topics/vectorborne.shtml
• Use insect repellants when outdoors, especially in the evening hours.
• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent such as those with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These products can be used on skin or clothing. Alawys follow the directions on the product label.
• Wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors at dusk or dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Anyone can be infected with the West Nile virus. People over the age of 50 and people with weak immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness.

Many people infected with West Nile virus do not become ill and may not develop symptoms. Mild symptoms include flu-like illness, and more severe cases include high fever, neck stiffness and swelling of the brain (encephalitis) which can lead to coma, convulsions and death.

Staff Writer Mike Deak wears long pants while playing golf because he is always near water hazards. You can contact him at 908-243-6607 or mdeak@mycentraljersey.com