Child Tests Positive for West Nile in Atlantic County

Atlantic County has reported its first human case of West Nile virus.

New Jersey now has two confirmed cases of West Nile Virus, the disease that's primarily caused by mosquito bites.

An Atlantic County child tested positive for West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease with symptoms reported in the third week of July, the New Jersey Department of Health announced Thursday in a press release.

Two NJ Residents Test Positive for West Nile Virus

An adult in Middlesex County also tested positive for West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease with symptoms reported in the first week of August.

Both of the people involved have been discharged from the hospital and are recovering at home.

Officials also said an asymptomatic blood donor from Sussex County, New Jersey, tested positive for the virus as well.

Officials said four more suspected cases of West Nile virus are under investigation.

Atlantic County's First Positive West Nile Case of the Year

The NJ Dept. of Health did not give specific town information concerning the Atlantic County child who tested positive.

Atlantic County towns with positive West Nile Virus mosquito samples so far this year include Linwood, Pleasantville, Somers Point, Ventnor, and Northfield.

For many people, West Nile virus causes asymptomatic infection. One in five people will develop a mild to moderate illness, typically with a fever, chills, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.

Less than 1% of people infected will develop a more severe form of the disease that affects the central nervous system, requires hospitalization, or results in death.

People over age 50, with certain chronic medical conditions, and with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness.

The Prevalence of West Nile Virus in New Jersey

Most WNV cases occur between mid-August and mid-September.

In a typical year, there are 14 human West Nile virus infections reported statewide, although that number varies from year to year.

Last year, New Jersey had 41 human cases of WNV, including eight fatalities.

How to Protect Yourself

The NJ Department of Health recommends these steps to keep yourself and your family safe from West Nile virus.

• Wear EPA-registered insect repellent.
• Treat clothing with permethrin or use pre-treated clothing.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants and cover exposed skin.
• Cover cribs, strollers, and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
• Mosquito-proof your yard and home by dumping standing water.
• Keep mosquitoes out of your home by using air conditioning when possible, or use screens on your windows and doors.