West Nile Virus Detected in Northfield, Atlantic County

Atlantic County's Division of Public Health has issued an advisory for the first positive test for the West Nile virus this year.

The positive sample was collected from the 1200 block of Zion Road in Northfield.

The advisory from the county says the positive sample was collected on July 12 and determined to be positive on Tuesday, July 18. Atlantic County public health officials have begun mosquito surveillance and are taking additional precautions in the area.

There haven't been any reported cases of human infection of West Nile virus so far this year in Atlantic County.

Infected mosquitoes carry the West Nile virus and it can be transmitted to birds, animals, and humans.

Health officials encourage residents to reduce their risk and the spread of West Nile virus by reducing their exposure to mosquito bites by following these tips:

- Use Insect repellent when going outside. The Centers for Disease Control recommends the use of products containing active ingredients that have been registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for use as repellents applied to skin and clothing.

- Remove mosquito breeding areas. 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 and repair screen doors and windows.

For more information about the West Nile virus and how to keep your family safe, 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.