Deadly Mosquito Virus Grows To 13 NJ Counties: Human Cases Triple

NEW JERSEY — Human infections of a deadly virus that's associated with horses have tripled in New Jersey in just a matter of weeks, and there's evidence that it's spread to 13 counties in the state (see list below).

The New Jersey Department of Health says 65 mosquito samples have tested positive for the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus, also referred to as "EEE" or "Triple E," according to a department release.

Last year at this time, 12 samples tested positive. Just two weeks ago, the 2019 number was 48.

The two new human cases of Eastern equine encephalitis were confirmed this weekend in Union and Atlantic counties. The department confirmed the first human case of Eastern equine encephalitis in New Jersey in August, infecting a Somerset County man.

The Somerset County man was hospitalized but was eventually discharged for continued rehabilitation care.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the disease has spread nationwide, infecting 21 humans in 21 states since 2009 and killing five.

Here is where it was found in New Jersey in 2019 (number of samples):

• Atlantic 10
• Morris 9
• Burlington 8
• Monmouth 8
• Sussex 8
• Camden 7
• Gloucester 5
• Ocean 3
• Salem 3
• Cape May 1
• Hunterdon 1
• Union 1
• Warren 1

Read more: Eastern Equine Encephalitis Caution Issued At Joint Base

Eastern equine encephalitis is a rare but potentially deadly illness for humans. The disease is also a concern for horses, though a vaccine is available and recommended for them. Both EEE and West Nile virus are transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito.

In severe cases of EEE, a person may experience encephalitis, or swelling of the brain, that may result in death. About one-third of people with Eastern equine encephalitis die from the disease and there is significant brain damage in most survivors, according to the release.

While there is a vaccine for horses, there is no vaccine for people.

The state Department of Health is encouraging residents to take steps to protect themselves from all mosquito-borne diseases including Eastern equine encephalitis.

Severe cases of Eastern equine encephalitis begin with the sudden onset of a headache, high fever, chills and vomiting four to 10 days after a mosquito bite. The illness may then progress to disorientation, seizures or a coma, according to the release.

“While we are always concerned about more common mosquito-borne diseases, like West Nile virus, we also need to be vigilant for rare, but severe viruses, like Eastern equine encephalitis,” said Acting Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli. “Individuals who are concerned they may have Eastern equine encephalitis should contact their health care provider right away.”

Reducing exposure to mosquitoes is the best defense against infection with Eastern Equine Encephalitis and other mosquito-borne viruses, according to the release.

There are several steps you and your family can take to prevent and control mosquito-borne diseases.

Prevent Mosquito bites:

• Use repellent: When outdoors, use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin and/or clothing. The repellent/insecticide permethrin can be used on clothing to protect through several washes. Always follow package directions.
• Insect repellent should not be used on children less than 2 months old and oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children less than 3 years
• Wear protective clothing: Wear long sleeves/pants when weather permits
• Install and repair screens: Have secure, intact screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out and use air conditioning if you have it

Mosquitoes can lay eggs even in small amounts of standing water. You and your family can take the following steps to limit mosquitoes on your property and keep them from laying eggs near you:

• Empty standing water from flower pots, buckets, barrels, and tires. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Empty children’s wading pools and wheelbarrows and store on their side after use.
• Dispose of water-holding containers that have accumulated on your property, especially discarded tires
• Drill holes in the bottom and elevate recycling containers that are left outdoors
• Clean up any trash or leaves that may be around your home or in rain gutters at least once a year
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools that are not being used. Mosquitoes can even breed in the water that collects on pool covers
• Use landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property