New Jersey sees early and active West Nile virus season, health officials warn

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.

Health officials are now warning of an early and active season. Officials said most cases of West Nile happen from mid-August to mid-September.

Medical professionals told PIX11 News that there isn’t a cure for the virus so it is key to take precautions.

Residents in Elizabeth, N.J. reacted to the warning from the state health department Thursday evening, about two human cases of West Nile virus detected in July.

“Yesterday I went to the back of my house, a lot of mosquitos a lot,” said Elizabeth resident, Ana Palencia on Thursday.

The virus is spread through mosquito bites. A Middlesex County resident and a Union County resident were both diagnosed last month after becoming sick, according to the state health department. One person was over 70, and the other was under 18.

Each was hospitalized and has since been released.

“Just staying away from areas where there are lots of bugs,” said Janete Mandrago, also a resident of Elizabeth.

A third person, who’s a blood donor and had no symptoms, was reported in Somerset County.  According to medical experts, 80% of patients with the virus are asymptomatic.

“In 20% it is usually fever in a rash. It is usually fever and a rash. But it can get worse, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, confusion, convulsion, meaning seizures,” stated Dr. Tania Florimon.

She added that it is key to prevent mosquitos from breeding by removing puddles of standing water.

Goodman Power showed PIX11 News a puddle of water near a restaurant on the corner of Elizabeth Avenue and South Reid Street. He claims it happens very often.

“Look all of the water doesn’t go into the sewerage, it goes down to Third Avenue. Yes, concerns me,” said Power.

The New Jersey Department of Health Gives out these recommendations, including wearing EPA-registered insect repellant and using a mosquito net for cribs, strollers, and baby carries.

“Mosquito repellant, that’s about it we keep track of where we go, whether we go to the park, or hiking we make sure we don’t go near any bugs,” said John Mandrago.

Some spots to keep an eye on also include flowerpots, pet food dishes, swimming pool covers, clogged rain gutters, and trash containers.

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