New Jersey

First Death Reported From West Nile Virus in NJ Since 2013

New Jersey Department of Health officials say a 65-year-old Passaic County man has died from West Nile virus, the state's first death from the mosquito-borne illness since 2013.

The Record reports the man, who wasn't identified, died Aug. 29.

DOH officials say the victim was one of seven cases of human infection of the virus reported in the state this year. They say two West Nile cases have been reported in Passaic County, along with one each for Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Gloucester and Middlesex counties.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials say most people infected do not develop symptoms, but those ages 60 and older are at a greater risk for severe disease.

West Nile can cause paralysis, vision loss, tremors and muscle weakness, among other health issues.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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