More Mosquitos Positive For West Nile Virus In Atlantic County

HAMMONTON, NJ — Further mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus in Atlantic County, officials said.

The latest samples were collected from Pleasant Street West in Hammonton and tested positive on Sept. 17, according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health.

Prior samples collected from Hammonton that also tested positive for West Nile virus were found on Oak Avenue, W. 15th Street and Liberty Street. Other samples that were positive were collected from Corbin City, Linwood, Absecon and Buena Vista Township.

The Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control has conducted both an aerial spray (Sept. 3) and ground spray (Sept. 10) over portions of Hammonton to help reduce mosquito populations and the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes. Residents are urged to take precautions by limiting their exposure to mosquito bites with the following tips:

• 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 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.
  • 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.

For more information about West Nile virus, visit the Atlantic County Web site at: www.atlanticcountynj.gov 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.