Mosquito and Tick Diseases

New Jersey is susceptible to several mosquito and tick-borne illnesses, with peak activity typically occurring during warmer months. Notable diseases include Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, Powassan virus, and Alpha-gal syndrome (a meat allergy) transmitted by ticks, as well as West Nile virus, Eastern Equine encephalitis (EEE), and Jamestown Canyon virus transmitted by mosquitoes. To mitigate these risks, individuals can take preventive measures such as using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and conducting regular tick checks.

Mosquito-borne Illnesses

West Nile Virus (WNV)

The leading mosquito-borne disease in the state, with symptoms ranging from none to fever, headache, body aches, and in rare cases, severe neurological issues.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE):

A rare but very serious virus that can cause severe encephalitis (brain inflammation).

St. Louis Encephalitis (SLE)

A viral infection that can cause fever, headache, and severe, sometimes fatal, inflammation of the brain.

Jamestown Canyon Virus

A rare virus that can cause symptoms like fever and dizziness.

La Crosse Encephalitis

A rare cause of viral encephalitis.

Tick-borne Illnesses

Alpha-gal Syndrome

Alpha-gal Syndrome is a serious, potentially fatal allergic condition triggered by a sugar molecule found in most mammals, which is often transmitted to humans through lone star tick bites.

Lyme Disease

The most common, often causing a "bull's-eye" rash, fever, headaches, and fatigue.

Anaplasmosis & Ehrlichiosis

Bacterial infections causing flu-like symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, and muscle aches.

Babesiosis

A parasite that infects red blood cells, which can be severe in individuals without a spleen, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

A severe, fast-acting bacterial disease requiring prompt treatment.

Powassan Virus

A rare but serious virus that can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).