The first positive test of the year for a mosquito carrying West Nile Virus in Atlantic County happened this week in Northfield according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health.

The Atlantic County Division of Public Health confirmed Wednesday that a positive sample of West Nile Virus had been found in a mosquito in the vicinity of Birch Grove Park.

West Nile Virus can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans from infected mosquitoes. The virus can cause inflammation of the brain and the spinal cord in humans. Areas with standing water particularly in warm weather provide ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed.

Here are some tips from the Division of Public Health on how you can protect yourself -

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.

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: ACLink.org.

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

 

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