Morris County malaria case under investigation; may be first locally acquired in N.J. since 1991
MORRIS COUNTY, N.J. — State health and environmental officials are investigating a case of malaria in a Morris County resident with no history of international travel, raising the possibility of the first locally acquired infection in New Jersey in more than three decades.
The Department of Health said Tuesday it is working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to determine the source of the infection. The last known locally acquired malaria case in New Jersey was reported in 1991.
Although Anopheles mosquitoes capable of transmitting malaria are present in the state, officials said the risk to the general public remains low. New Jersey typically sees about 100 travel-associated cases of malaria each year.
“While risk to the general public is low, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to prevent locally acquired malaria in New Jersey,” Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown said in a statement. “The most effective ways are to prevent mosquito bites in the first place and to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of malaria in returning travelers.”
Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette urged residents to eliminate standing water around their properties to reduce mosquito breeding.
Malaria is a mosquito-borne illness common in tropical and subtropical regions. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue, and can develop within 7 to 30 days of exposure. The disease can be cured with prescription medication, but may be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
State officials reminded residents that late summer and early fall are also peak seasons for other mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis.
