PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is reporting a confirmed case of Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV) in a Rhode Island resident.

Laboratory testing confirming the diagnosis was conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The person who tested positive was a resident of Washington County in his 50s who developed neurological symptoms and is now recovering. JCV is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.

JCV is a mosquito-borne pathogen that can be found widely in North America, especially in the Midwest and Northeast United States.

The virus circulates primarily between deer and mosquitoes, but can also infect humans. Human cases can occur from late spring through mid-fall. People can be infected and not develop any symptoms, or only develop very mild symptoms. Early symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue. Rarely, more serious central nervous system disease, including meningitis or encephalitis, can occur. For more information on Jamestown Canyon Virus, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/jamestown-canyon/index.html