FLEMINGTON, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — The Hunterdon County Health Department has launched a new weekly health update to keep residents informed about public health alerts, wellness tips, and local health services.
The first edition focuses on vector-borne disease awareness, educating the public about illnesses transmitted by ticks and mosquitoes, including the potentially serious bacterial infection Ehrlichiosis.
“Vector-borne diseases pose a significant health risk to our community,” said Deputy Director Shaun C. Van Doren, who serves as liaison to the Health Department. “By educating our residents and taking preventive measures, we can reduce the incidence of these diseases and protect our families and pets.”
Ehrlichiosis, one of the department’s key concerns this year, is spread through tick bites. Symptoms typically develop within one to two weeks and may include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. If left untreated, the illness can cause severe complications such as difficulty breathing or organ failure. Health officials stress that early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are critical.
The county’s Mosquito and Vector Control Program conducts regular monitoring of mosquito populations and partners with the New Jersey Public Health and Environmental Laboratory to test for vector-borne pathogens.
To help reduce the risk of infection, the department recommends:
- Avoiding tick-prone areas during peak seasons
- Using EPA-approved insect repellents
- Performing regular tick checks after outdoor activities
- Keeping pets protected with veterinary-recommended tick prevention
Health Department Director Karen DeMarco emphasized the importance of ongoing communication with residents. “The Health Department is committed to keeping residents informed by providing weekly public health updates,” she said. “These reports deliver timely information on disease outbreaks and health concerns affecting Hunterdon County.”
The public can access weekly updates through the department’s website.
“I encourage residents to view the weekly newsletter,” Van Doren added. “It’s designed to keep our community informed and empowered to make smart health decisions.”
For more information on Ehrlichiosis and other vector-borne illnesses, visit the New Jersey Health Ehrlichiosis Resource.
