West Nile Virus Found In Atlantic County Mosquitoes: Officials

ATLANTIC COUNTY, NJ — Two mosquito pool samples from Atlantic County towns have tested positive for West Nile Virus, county health officials said.

The samples were collected on July 24 from the 700 block of W. Park Avenue in Pleasantville and the 600 block of Kingsley Avenue in Ventnor. A previous sample collected from the 300 block of Royal Avenue in Linwood was the first positive pool this year.

County public health and mosquito control officials are conducting mosquito surveillance and implementing additional control measures.

There are no reported human cases of the virus at this time, according to county health officials.

West Nile virus is carried by infected mosquitoes and 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 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.