Politics & Government

Worried About West Nile Virus? Health Department Offers Prevention Tips

Limit time outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active, or wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants during those times, Health Department advises.

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Elizabeth Alterman, Patch StaffVerified Patch Staff Badge

As West Nile virus activity in New Jersey typically occurrs in August and September, the Madison Health Department is providing information about the illness, which is transmitted primarily by the bite of an infective mosquito.

While West Nile virus generally causes mild flu-like symptoms or no symptoms, approximately one in 150 of those infected will develop a more severe form of the disease. 


Symptoms of the more severe disease can include: severe headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, paralysis and death. The elderly are at higher risk of more severe disease 

Consider taking the following precautions to prevent WNV:

  • When outdoors, use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient: The gold standard for mosquito repellent is DEET, which may be used on adults and children greater than two months of age.

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  • Limit time outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active, or wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants during those times.

  • Keep mosquito netting over infant seats and strollers.

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  • Eliminate any standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs. Mosquitoes that breed around the home are primarily responsible for transmitting West Nile Virus to humans! Morris County residents may report mosquito problems and standing water to the Morris County Mosquito Commission at (973) 285-6450.

  • Install or repair window and door screens.

  • Support community-based mosquito control programs. 

    • For additional sources of information, visit the following:

    • The NJ State Department of Health and Senior Services website. 

    • CDC website

    • The Morris County Mosquito Commission website, which also provides information about when mosquito spraying will be occurring. 

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