Jamestown Canyon Virus found in New Hampshire mosquitos

The first mosquitoes of 2023 found to be carrying Jamestown Canyon Virus were collected in Keene on June 6, confirming that this disease is still around in New Hampshire.

JCV, as it is known, was first reported in the state in 2013. It is relatively uncommon, only 19 cases have been reported in people over the decade, but there are no vaccines to prevent JCV and the only treatment consists of supportive care.

“This finding of the first identification of Jamestown Canyon Virus in New Hampshire serves as a reminder that when enjoying the outdoors, mosquito bite prevention is key in safely enjoying the outdoors,” said Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Elizabeth Talbot. “As soon as mosquitoes emerge in the spring, residents and visitors can take steps to protect their health and their family’s health, including using an effective insect repellant, wearing protective clothing, and minimizing outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.”

Mosquitoes in the Northeast also carryEastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV).

For all mosquito-borne diseases present in New Hampshire, early symptoms can include flu-like illness, including fever, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. Some people may progress to more serious central nervous system diseases, including meningitis or encephalitis.

Anyone with questions about vector-borne illnesses – those carried by mosquitoes, ticks and other insects, can call the DHHS Division of Public Health Services’ Bureau of Infectious Disease Control at (603) 271-4496 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, visit dhhs.nh.gov and cdc.gov.

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