New Jersey Suspects Local Malaria Case in Morris County

As summer draws to a close in August 2025, millions of beachgoers flock to New Jersey's extensive coastline. While many vacationers enjoy the waves and surfing at the shore, this year, mosquito bites may become a popular topic of conversation.

According to news posted today, the New Jersey Departments of Health (NJDOH) and Environmental Protection are investigating a case of malaria in a resident of Morris County with no international travel history.

NJDOH wrote on August 18, 2025, that it is possible the resident was infected by a virus-carrying mosquito with malaria in New Jersey.

If confirmed, this would be the first known locally acquired case of malaria in New Jersey since 1991.

"While risk to the general public is low, it's important to take the necessary precautions to prevent locally acquired malaria in New Jersey. The most effective ways are to prevent mosquito bites in the first place and to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of malaria in returning travelers,” said Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown, in a press release."

“Anyone traveling to countries with widespread malaria should take appropriate steps to prevent malaria while traveling and monitor for symptoms.”

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite transmitted by certain mosquitoes and is widespread in many tropical and subtropical countries.

For example, the state of Florida has reported numerious travel-related malaria cases involving travelers visiting Cuba in 2025.

While approved for use in Africa, malaria vaccines are currently unavailable in the United States.