New Jersey has recorded its first confirmed death from West Nile virus this year as state health officials urge residents to remain vigilant against mosquito-borne illnesses.
The New Jersey Department of Health has so far reported 26 cases of West Nile virus in 2026, including 19 cases involving neurological illness. The state has not released details about the person who died.
Fourteen of the reported cases occurred in people who became ill in late August or September, and several additional cases remain under investigation. People age 60 and older account for 69% of the state’s cases.
Monmouth County has reported the most cases, with six, followed by Mercer County with four and Camden County with three.
West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, typically after the mosquito has fed on an infected bird. The virus is not transmitted directly from birds to humans.
State officials said mosquitoes remain active despite the arrival of cooler weather. They are urging residents to use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, avoid outdoor activity during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and use mosquito netting over cribs, strollers and baby carriers.
Residents also are being urged to eliminate standing water around their homes. Mosquitoes can breed in relatively small amounts of water, including flowerpots, birdbaths, pet dishes, swimming pool covers, clogged gutters, plastic pools and wheelbarrows. Outdoor water sources should be emptied or changed at least once a week.
New Jersey has detected West Nile virus in 1,182 mosquito pools across all 21 counties this year, with the highest levels of mosquito detections reported in Mercer, Hudson, Somerset, Bergen and Middlesex counties.
Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. When symptoms occur, they can include fever, chills, body aches and joint pain. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe neurological illness, including meningitis or encephalitis.
Older adults and people with weakened immune systems face a greater risk of severe illness. Warning signs can include high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, confusion or other behavioral changes, weakness in the limbs and severe fatigue.
“Fall does not mean mosquito season ends,” New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn said. “The cooler weather makes it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and visit our farms, but mosquitoes remain active and can still pose risks.”
State and county mosquito-control programs are continuing efforts to reduce mosquito populations and minimize the risk of transmission to people.
