NewsDesk  @infectiousdiseasenews

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) reported today the first human Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV) case in the state since 2013.

Image/ National Atlas of the United States

The person who tested positive for Jamestown Canyon Virus is a resident of Kent County in their 50s. This person started experiencing symptoms in mid-September and was subsequently hospitalized. Due to the progression of symptoms, tests were submitted to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in mid-October and Jamestown Canyon Virus was confirmed. This person has been discharged from the hospital and is recovering.

Jamestown Canyon Virus is a mosquito-borne pathogen that circulates widely in North America, primarily between deer and mosquitoes, but can also infect humans. Human cases can occur from late spring through mid-fall. People can be infected and not develop any symptoms, or only develop very mild symptoms. Early symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue. Rarely, more serious central nervous system disease, including meningitis or encephalitis, can occur.

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In addition, state health officials reported the second human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in 2021.

“Although we are no longer in mosquito season in Rhode Island, these recently confirmed cases of JCV and WNV are a reminder that a few simple precautions can help you stay healthy and safe when you are outdoors spending quality time with family and friends,” said Nicole Alexander-Scott, MD, MPH, Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health. “And while mosquitoes may no longer be biting after the first hard frost, Rhode Islanders are reminded that we are not ‘out of the woods’ with ticks, which can continue to bite and spread diseases like Lyme Disease, even in winter.”