Wednesday, July 13, 2016

West Nile Virus Found in Atlantic County Mosquito Sample

West Nile Virus, a mosquito-borne disease, has been confirmed in a mosquito sample in Northfield, according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health. This is the first positive West Nile Virus sample in Atlantic County this year.

County public health and mosquito control officials are conducting mosquito surveillance and implementing additional control measures within the vicinity of Birch Grove Park, the collection site location.

Atlantic County health officials will be notifying residents who live within 500 feet of this location and providing information and educational materials.

West Nile Virus can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans from infected mosquitoes. Areas with standing water particularly in warm weather provide ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed.

The Division of Public Health works with the Office of Mosquito Control to track the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile Virus. Health officials encourage residents to prevent the spread of West Nile Virus by following these simple steps:

* Avoid mosquito bites by using an insect repellent whenever going outdoors. Repellents are an important tool to assist people in protecting themselves from mosquito-borne diseases. The Centers for Disease Control recommends the use of products containing active ingredients which have been registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for use as repellents applied to skin and clothing and approved for efficacy and human safety when applied as directed. Be sure to follow product directions carefully and consult with your child’s doctor prior to using on children.  

* Rid properties of mosquito breeding grounds by draining standing water. Buckets, bird baths, flower pots and other containers can hold water and provide an ideal environment for mosquitoes. Be sure to empty these containers regularly. Mosquitoes do not travel far from where they breed.

* Clean clogged gutters; check and repair screen doors.
 
For more information about West Nile Virus, visit the Atlantic County web site at: www.aclink.org/publichealth/westnile

For information and assistance in removing stagnant water from your property, call the Office of Mosquito Control at (609) 645-5948.
  

For more information about West Nile Virus click here.

County News