By NewsDesk  @bactiman63

New Hampshire health officials reported three additional Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV) cases from Loudon, Pittsfield and Rumney.

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This brings the total detections in the state for the year to four.

The individuals infected with JCV from Rumney and Pittsfield were hospitalized with neurological symptoms; they have been discharged and are recovering at home. The person infected from Loudon was not hospitalized and is currently in good health.

“With these three JCV infections happening in early fall, it is important to remember the season of mosquitos is longer than just the summer months. Mosquitos can continue to transmit infections like Jamestown Canyon Virus until there is a mosquito-killing hard frost,” Dr. Benjamin Chan, NH State Epidemiologist stated. “Residents and visitors of New Hampshire should take steps to avoid mosquito bites from the time the snow melts in the spring to the hard-frosts of fall.”

JCV is a mosquito-borne pathogen that circulates widely in North America primarily between deer and mosquitoes but can also infect humans.

People can be infected and not develop any symptoms, or only develop very mild symptoms for all three mosquito-borne diseases. Early symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue. More serious central nervous system disease, including meningitis or encephalitis can occur with these diseases. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, including fever and headache, contact your local medical provider. There are no vaccines to prevent JCV and care consists of treating symptoms to keep the individual comfortable.

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Reports of JCV in humans have been increasing over the last several years as recognition and testing for this virus has increased. New Hampshire has detected eighteen cases of JCV since the first report of the disease in the State in 2013. Many illnesses caused by JCV are mild, but moderate-to-severe central nervous system involvement requiring hospitalization have been reported, including fatal infections. In NH, human cases of JCV have been recorded as early as mid-May and as late as early November.