West Nile Virus Found In Hackettstown, Police Say

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ — West Nile virus has been found in mosquitoes in Hackettstown, police said.

The infected mosquitoes were found in a sample taken from Riverfront Park, off of Willow Grove Street on Aug. 1, and on East Baldwin Street on July 25. Culex mosquitoes specifically were trapped for sample; they are the type of mosquito that transmit the virus.

Eight samples across Warren County have tested positive this season: Oxford (3), Harmony (1), Franklin (1), Hope (1) and Hackettstown (2). No humans have tested positive this season, and its not unusual for mosquitoes to cary the virus in this area towards the end of summer.

Both areas have been treated to prevent mosquitoes since the positive tests, police said.

West Nile virus can be mild, with symptoms of fever, headaches, tiredness and swollen lymph glands. Even mild infections can last for weeks, but about 1 in 150 people will develop a severe illness that can cause neurological damage, including paralysis, and death.

Police shared these tips to reduce the chances of getting West Nile virus:

• Don't produce mosquitoes on your property. Dump or drain standing water. Mosquitoes can't begin their life without water.
• Defend yourself against mosquitoes using repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
• Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are present, typically Dawn and Dusk.
• Report neglected swimming pools by calling 908-453-3585 or visiting www.warrencountymosquito.org Anonymous calls accepted. Just one neglected pool can produce more than 1 million mosquitoes and affect people up to five miles away.

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