First Case Of West Nile Virus Diagnosed In Ocean County

The first case of West Nile Virus in Ocean County was diagnosed recently, according to an Ocean County Board of Health official.

The resident, whose name and town were not released, has already been discharged from the hospital, said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, who serves as liaison to the county Board of Health.

“This is a reminder to all of us that we need to continue being diligent in protecting ourselves and family from mosquitoes.”

The Ocean County Mosquito Commission will be increasing surveillance in the area and taking appropriate action, said county Public Health Coordinator Daniel E. Regenye.

Most West Nile virus infections produce no symptoms or moderate symptoms that include fever, headache and body aches, said Jennifer Crawford, who heads the health department‘s Communicable Disease Unit.

“These symptoms often are accompanied by skin rash and swollen lymph glands, but can produce more dangerous conditions among the young or the elderly and those persons with chronic diseases or compromised immune systems,” she said.

The virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Homeowners should eliminated and sources of standing water on their properties where the pests may lay eggs. Eggs can hatch within hours, according to the health department.

In addition to eliminating standing water around the home, residents should take the following precautions:

Limit outdoor activities at dawn and dusk, when possible.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants whenever outdoors, weather permitting.
Make sure screen doors and windows are in good condition.
When going outside, use an insect repellent containing DEET on skin or clothing, or a repellent containing permethrin on clothing. DO NOT use repellants on children less than 3 years old.
ALWAYS USE REPELLENTS ACCORDING TO THE DIRECTIONS ON THE LABEL.

Residents are reminded to report dead birds to OCHD by calling 732-341-9700, ext. 7515. The locations of all dead birds are recorded for use by the Ocean County Mosquito Commission. Birds that are suitable for testing will be sent to the state laboratory to test for the virus.