West Nile Virus Found In Atlantic County Mosquito: Officials

MULLICA TOWNSHIP, NJ — A mosquito sample in Mullica Township has tested positive for West Nile virus, the Atlantic County Division of Public Health announced Monday. This is the first confirmed positive mosquito sample in the county this year, officials said.

On Aug. 10, representatives from the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control collected the sample from the 200 block of Weymouth Avenue in Mullica Township, officials said. It was confirmed positive for West Nile virus on Aug. 16, officials said.

Currently, county public health and mosquito control officers are conducting mosquito surveillance, implementing additional control measures and providing educational materials to area residents and businesses.

County health officials confirmed that there are no reported human cases of the virus at this time.

West Nile virus is carried by infected mosquitos. It can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans. Health officials shared the following tips to reduce risk and spread of West Nile virus by reducing exposure to mosquito bites.

• 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 website at: www.aclink.org/publichealth 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.