New Jersey Sounds Alarm: First Human West Nile Virus Cases Confirmed as Summer Wanes

As the final days of summer unfold, New Jersey health authorities have issued a significant public health alert: the state has officially confirmed its first human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) for 2025. This development serves as a critical reminder for residents to remain vigilant and take proactive steps against mosquito-borne illnesses, especially as the season for transmission reaches its peak.

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) reported two confirmed cases, one each in Middlesex and Bergen counties.

Both individuals experienced symptoms consistent with WNV infection and are currently recovering. While most people infected with West Nile Virus do not develop symptoms, approximately one in five will experience a mild illness including fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.

A small percentage, less than 1%, can develop a severe neurological illness such as encephalitis or meningitis, characterized by high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, or paralysis.

West Nile Virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly the Culex species, which thrive in stagnant water.

These mosquitoes typically feed from dusk till dawn, making these hours particularly high-risk for outdoor activities. The virus cannot be spread from person to person through casual contact or from animals to humans.

Health officials are urging all New Jerseyans to adopt essential preventative measures.

This includes using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 when outdoors. Furthermore, residents should eliminate standing water around their homes where mosquitoes can breed. This means regularly emptying bird baths, cleaning gutters, turning over tires, and removing any containers that can collect water.

Repairing screens on windows and doors can also help keep mosquitoes out of homes.

In response to the confirmed cases, county health departments and mosquito control commissions are intensifying surveillance efforts and implementing targeted control measures, including larviciding and adult mosquito spraying in affected areas.

These efforts are crucial in mitigating the spread of the virus and protecting the wider community. The NJDOH continues to monitor WNV activity across the state and provide updates as new information becomes available.

With these initial human cases reported, the message is clear: do not underestimate the threat of West Nile Virus.

By taking simple, effective precautions, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of infection and help keep New Jersey healthy and safe through the remainder of mosquito season. Stay informed, stay protected, and enjoy the rest of your summer responsibly.