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| Northfield Mosquito Sample Tests Positive For West Nile Virus |
| Atlantic County has reported finding a mosquito sample that has tested positive for West Nile Virus in Northfield. State laboratory testing confirmed evidence of the mosquito-borne disease.
Officials from the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control collected the sample earlier this month near the intersection of Zion Road and Wabash Avenue. Officials are conducting mosquito surveillance, implementing additional control measures and providing educational materials to Northfield residents.
This is the first positive mosquito sample found in Atlantic County this year. In 2006, one bird was found to be infected with the disease. Statewide in 2007, 135 mosquito samples and nine birds have tested positive for the disease. No human cases of West Nile Virus have been documented in Atlantic County since the initial discovery of the disease in the United States in 1999.
"It is not uncommon to find mosquito samples positive for West Nile Virus during this time of the year," explained County Health Officer Patricia Diamond. "However, even at the height of the season, the risk of human West Nile Virus infection to Atlantic County residents remains relatively low."
West Nile Virus can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans from infected mosquitoes. Crows are particularly vulnerable to West Nile Virus. Testing crows and blue jays that have been dead for no more than 24 hours can help health officials determine if the virus is present in a particular region.
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. According to the Centers for Disease Control, only repellents containing DEET offer long-lasting protection after a single application. Be sure to follow product directions carefully and use repellent containing less than 10 percent DEET 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.
* Report dead crows and blue jays to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health by calling 609-645-5971.
For more information about West Nile Virus, visit the Atlantic County Web site at: www.aclink.org/publichealth or call our Mosquito Control and West Nile Virus hotline at 877-643-2287. For information or assistance in draining standing water from your property, call the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control at 609-645-5948.
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