There is a mosquito-borne illness on the rise in New Jersey.
Following the news that a mosquito in Union County, NJ, tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis, public health professionals at JB MDL discovered a mosquito on the installation also tested positive for the disease.
Only one mosquito was found to be infected with EEE, and transmission to humans is rare, but JB MDL leadership is taking all appropriate actions to mitigate the issue.
Public health professionals recommend the following methods to prevent contracting mosquito-borne EEE:
• Limit time outside especially during dawn and dusk and at night.
• Use DEET on exposed skin.
• Wear clothing that protects the arms and legs when outside. If possible, tuck pant legs into shoes or socks.
• Clothing can also be treated with permethrin (a mosquito repellent that is available at sporting goods, camping, and hunting stores). Some utility uniforms will be pre-treated with permethrin. Uniform labels will provide the specific information about pre-treatment.
• Eliminate sources of standing water. If the sources of standing water are at your workplace, report them to supervisors for abatement.
• Ensure that window/door screens are in good repair.
EEE is a very rare but serious mosquito-borne disease. There have been some positive mosquito cases and one human case seen this summer in New Jersey. There have been no human cases this year at JB MDL.
Milder symptoms that can be associated with EEE include chills, fever, body aches, and fatigue. In some cases, the milder form of the illness will progress to more severe symptoms to include severe headache, irritability, drowsiness, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, and convulsions. Anyone who believes they may have contracted EEE should consult their healthcare provider for proper diagnosis.
For more information about mosquito prevention methods, contact Air Force Public Health at 609-754-9766. AFMS - 87th Medical Group
https://newyork.cbslocal.com/…/new-jersey-mosquitoes-virus…/