Two New Jersey Senior Residents Succumb to West Nile Virus

Two New Jersey senior residents have died due to complications related to West Nile Virus, while six other residents have tested positive for WNV, according to the latest announcement from the Department of Health.

The two New Jersey adults who lost their lives were - a 92-year-old man from Morris County and a 78-year-old woman from Gloucester County. The woman had developed fever, blurred vision, weakness and diarrhea. While the elderly man suffered from fever and weakness in the muscles. He died on August 31 after developing encephalitis (swelling of the brain).

West Nile Virus is transmitted to human by mosquitoes. About 1 in 5 infected people develop fever. Unfortunately, there are no symptoms for WNV and no medication to treat or vaccines to prevent this infection. Less than 1 percent of the infected people develop serious and fatal neurological illness. As of August 27, 2013 nearly 421 cases of WVN and 13 deaths have been reported..

 "September is the peak of West Nile Virus season so I encourage everyone to take steps to prevent mosquito bites by wearing insect repellent with DEET and to limit time outdoors during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active," Health Commissioner Mary E. O'Dowd said in a press statement.

The New Jersey Department of Health is recommending residents to take protective measures against WNV by using insect netting for infant carriers and strollers, using insect repellent, maintaining screen doors and windows.

The year 2012 was the most active season for WNV in the state's history as 48 cases were reported and six deaths. In 2011, just seven cases were reported and fortunately no deaths occurred.