3 More West Nile Mosquito Samples Found in Atlantic County

Atlantic County public health and mosquito control officials have confirmed that three mosquito pool samples have tested positive for West Nile virus as of July 7th.

The samples were collected on July 1 from the 100 block of Shore Road in Somers Point, the 300 block of Royal Avenue in Linwood, and West Faunce Road and Sycamore Street in Absecon.

The Cause of West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is carried by infected mosquitoes and can be transmitted to birds, animals, and humans. Health officials encourage you to reduce your risk and the spread of West Nile virus by reducing your exposure to mosquito bites

West Nile is most commonly spread to people by mosquitoes in the summer and fall.

West Nile virus cases have been reported in all 50 U.S. states. There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV. Fortunately, most people infected do not have symptoms.

About one in five people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About one out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness.

There are no reported human cases of the virus at this time, according to county health officials. A total of five samples have tested positive for the virus in Atlantic County this year.

Protecting Yourself From West Nile Virus

Three primary things are being recommended by Atlantic County health officials to reduce your risk of contracting West Nile virus.

Use 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 that have been registered by the EPA for use as repellents applied to skin and clothing and approved for efficacy and human safety when applied as directed.

* Rid properties of mosquito breeding grounds by draining standing water.
Mosquitoes do not travel far from where they breed. 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.

* Clean clogged gutters; check and repair screen doors.

Get More Information from the Experts

For more information about West Nile virus, visit the Atlantic County website or call the Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5971.

If you need assistance in removing stagnant puddles or floodwater from your property, call the Office of Mosquito Control at (609) 645-5948.