2 Mosquito-Borne Illnesses Confirmed In Rhode Island

PROVIDENCE, RI — Two new cases of dangerous, mosquito-borne illnesses were identified in Rhode Island, the Department of Health announced Monday. There was a second case of West Nile Virus, as well as the first case of Jamestown Canyon Virus in the state in nearly a decade.

"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, the 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."

Rhode Island's first case of West Nile Virus of 2021 was identified in early October, in a person in their 50s. The latest case, the second of 2021, was in a Washington County resident in their 60s, the Department of Health said. The person started experiencing symptoms in early September, and tests were submitted to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in October, as their symptoms progressed, the department said. They were not hospitalized.

The case of Jamestown Canyon Virus was the first case in Rhode Island since 2013. The person lives in Kent County and is in their 50s. Their symptoms started in mid-September, and they were hospitalized, the department said. As their symptoms progressed, tests were submitted to the CDC in mid-October, confirming the diagnosis. They were later discharged from the hospital and are recovering.

Jamestown Canyon Virus is spread by mosquitoes widely throughout North America. While most cases are found in mosquitoes and deer, though human cases are possible. Most human cases happen from late spring to early fall. Asymptomatic and mild cases are possible, and early symptoms often include fever, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. More serious, central nervous system diseases are rarer, but possible, such as encephalitis or meningitis.