State health officials are investigating a malaria case in a Morris County resident who has not traveled abroad. The New Jersey Departments of Health and Environmental Protection are working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to determine how the infection occurred.
If confirmed, it would be the first locally acquired malaria case in New Jersey since 1991. Officials say the Anopheles mosquitoes that can carry malaria exist in the state, but the risk of transmission remains low.
Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown said residents should take precautions. Mosquito bite prevention and early medical evaluation for symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches are critical. Malaria is treatable with prescription drugs, but delayed treatment can be dangerous.
Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette urged residents to eliminate standing water from yards and properties to limit mosquito breeding. Even small amounts of stagnant water can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
New Jersey records about 100 travel-associated malaria cases each year. Locally acquired cases occur when mosquitoes bite an infected traveler and then pass the parasite to others. Controlling mosquito populations and treating infected individuals quickly reduces the chance of further spread.
Summer and early fall also bring increased activity of other mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis. Officials recommend using EPA-approved insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors, and removing containers where water collects.
State and local mosquito control teams are monitoring populations, responding to public concerns, and coordinating efforts to limit the spread of disease. Health authorities will provide updates as the investigation continues.
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