1st West Nile Virus Case Of Year Detected In Camden Co.

CAMDEN COUNTY, NJ — A Camden County resident tested positive for West Nile Virus, marking the county's first-known case of the year for the mosquito-borne disease.

The resident's positive lab test was reported Tuesday to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services. An investigation was initiated.

County officials didn't disclose the resident's town or their condition.

West Nile Virus isn't typically widespread in New Jersey. Last week, health officials reported a total of 13 human cases across the state in 2025.

But the virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne illness in the United States. Four out of five people infected don't feel symptoms, while 1 in 50 develop a serious illness.

People are more likely to develop serious illness if they're over 50, have certain chronic medical conditions, or have a weakened immune system, according to the New Jersey Department of Health.

Most cases occur in August and September.

Health officials urge the public to stay vigilant and watch for symptoms, which can include but are not limited to:

• fever
• headache
• altered mental status
• other neurologic dysfunctions

Insect repellent is the best way to protect yourself from mosquitos — especially EPA-registered repellents with one of the following active ingredients — according to health officials:

• DEET
  
• Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the US)
• IR3535
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
• Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone

For more information, or to report a mosquito issue, contact the Camden County Mosquito Commission at 856-566-2945 or skeeters@camdencounty.com.

Visit the CDC's website for more information on West Nile Virus.