Mosquito Alert: New Virus Found in Atlantic County

Recent Discovery Health officials in Atlantic County have identified mosquitoes carrying the Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV). The news was announced on a Wednesday, revealing that the sample was collected from Morris Avenue in Egg Harbor Township on October 1 and confirmed positive shortly after.

About JCV

• Rarity: JCV is less common than other mosquito-borne viruses in New Jersey, such as West Nile virus or eastern equine encephalitis.
• Previous Cases: Before this finding, only four other mosquito pools in the state tested positive for JCV this year, located in Morris, Mercer, and Sussex counties. Additionally, one human case was reported in Middlesex County.

Symptoms and Treatment

• Symptoms: Fever, headache, and extreme fatigue.
• Treatment: There are no vaccines or special medicines available to prevent or treat JCV.
• Origin: The virus was first identified in Jamestown, Colorado, in 1961.

Safety Measures Health officials warn that the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses persists until the first hard frost kills off the adult mosquito population. To stay safe:

• Use insect repellent when outside.
• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
• Ensure gutters are clean and screen doors are in good repair.

For More Information Visit the Atlantic County website or call the Division of Public Health for additional details.