Authorities are investigating a case of malaria involving a resident of Morris County, which may mark the first locally-acquired instance of the illness in New Jersey since 1991.
This individual, whose identity hasn’t been disclosed, has no history of international travel. The New Jersey Departments of Health and Environmental Protection are looking into the case and collaborating with the CDC to trace potential sources of the infection.
Malaria, a disease spread by certain mosquitoes, is prevalent in many tropical and subtropical regions, as stated by the agencies involved.
Typically, New Jersey sees around 100 travel-related malaria cases each year. Locally-acquired malaria generally occurs when a mosquito bites someone who has acquired the infection through travel, picking up the parasite and then transmitting it to another individual.
While Anopheles mosquitoes, the carriers of malaria, are present in New Jersey, officials claim the risk of locally-acquired malaria remains relatively low.
“Despite the overall low risk to the public, it’s essential to take precautions against locally-acquired malaria in New Jersey,” noted Acting New Jersey Health Commissioner Jeff Brown. He emphasized the importance of preventing mosquito bites and ensuring prompt diagnosis and treatment for travelers returning from affected areas.
Symptoms of malaria can include fever, chills, headaches, muscle pain, and fatigue. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are also possible. Most individuals will show symptoms between seven to 30 days post-exposure.
While malaria is treatable with prescription antimalarial medications, quick diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as untreated cases can be severe.
The CDC identifies mosquitoes as the deadliest animals globally, transmitting various diseases, including malaria, dengue, West Nile virus, yellow fever, and Zika.
West Nile, in particular, is noted as the primary cause of mosquito-borne diseases in the U.S., with New Jersey experiencing a rise in cases in recent years.
As summer and early fall are peak seasons for mosquito-borne illnesses in New Jersey, awareness and preventive measures are vital.
