According to a story from nbcnewyork.com, A resident of Sussex County, New Jersey has recently tested positive for a rare infectious disease called Jamestown Canyon virus, or Jamestown Canyon encephalitis. The patient is a male in his 60s. This is the first reported mosquito-borne infection in the state this year and only the second recorded case of the disease in the state’s history.
About Jamestown Canyon Virus
Jamestown Canyon encephalitis is an uncommon infectious viral disease caused by the Jamestown Canyon virus. The disease can be spread by the bite from a variety of mosquito species in the Northern US and Canada, most typically during the warmer months of the year. Only 31 cases were reported to the CDC from 2000 to 2013, but it is likely somewhat underreported. Symptoms can occur anywhere from two days to two weeks following the bite and can include coughing, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, headache, and fever. In neuroinvasive cases, estimated to occur about two-thirds of the time, symptoms similar to meningitis or meningoencephalitis can develop, such as a more severe headache, stiff neck, and altered mental status, which may include a coma. Treatment for the illness is supportive and symptomatic, though a possible vaccine may be introduced in the future. To learn more about the Jamestown Canyon virus, click here.
The Case
The case was identified after the man began experiencing symptoms in May. In general, more cases of the illness have been recognized in recent years as testing has increased. While the virus can be found in much of the continental US, cases tend to be more prevalent in Northern regions, with Wisconsin and Minnesota reporting more than half of recorded cases.
While fatalities are uncommon, prevention of mosquito bites should be a significant concern for those venturing into the outdoors to avoid Jamestown Canyon virus as well as the variety of other diseases that the biting insects can potentially transmit. Measures include using insect repellent, covering exposed skin in mosquito-prone areas, and eliminating breeding sites, which include standing water such as flower pots, swimming pool covers, water dishes, and birdbaths.
Other mosquito-borne infections found in New Jersey include West Nile virus and Eastern Equine encephalitis.
