By: Richard L. Smith
The New Jersey Department of Health confirmed the state’s first human cases of West Nile virus this year.
A child in Atlantic County developed symptoms in late July, and an adult in Middlesex County became ill in early August.
Both were hospitalized but have since been discharged and are recovering at home.
Officials said four additional cases are under investigation, and a Sussex County resident who donated blood tested positive without showing symptoms.
Most West Nile infections occur between mid-August and mid-September. Last year, New Jersey recorded 41 cases, including eight deaths.
Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown urged residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites as the season can last into early November. 
While most infections cause no or mild illness, less than 1% can become severe, sometimes leading to lasting complications or death.