Rare Mosquito-Borne Virus Infects Sussex County Man

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ - A unidentified Sussex County man in his 60s recently tested positive for the rare Jamestown Canyon Virus.

New Jersey’s Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli said the man’s case was detected after he started having fevers and neurological symptoms in May.

His is the first case of 2021 in New Jersey and the second human case overall in the Garden State since 2015, when it also cropped up in another Sussex County resident.

Persichilli said Wednesday the virus, which tends to migrate throughout North America between deer and mosquitos, has been detected in humans more the past few years, with testing more readily available for it.

New Jersey’s Department of Health can help connect residents to testing providers, she also said.

The infection from the virus is often mild, though it can rise to the level of causing central nervous system issues all the way to fatalities, Persichilli added.

Jamestown Canyon virus may typically bring on fevers, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue, Persichilli said, symptoms that can mimic other conditions.

Persichilli stressed the importance of taking precautions to guard against mosquitos and ticks when outside.

“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,” Persichilli said.

Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette recommended people and businesses in New Jersey should monitor their properties for vulnerable spots where standing water can pool and attract mosquitoes, naming birdbaths, swimming pool covers, flowerpots, pet food dishes and other similar items as culprits.

Locally, Sussex County’s Office of Mosquito Control is a resource for mosquito-related questions. Representatives there can be reached Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 973-940-5225 or by email at mosquito@sussex.nj.us.

Questions or comments about this story? Have a news tip? Contact me at jennifer.miller@patch.com.