West Nile Virus Found In Union County Mosquitoes As Populations Rise, Officials Say

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Mosquito populations are increasing across Union County following recent rainfall, and officials say West Nile virus has been detected in mosquito samples collected throughout the county.

Since mosquito testing began at the end of May, the Union County Mosquito Control Division has submitted 50 mosquito samples for testing, with 10 coming back positive for West Nile virus, according to Sean Devaney, chief of mosquito control for Union County.

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No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Union County so far this season.

West Nile virus is spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While many people who become infected never develop symptoms, some can develop fever and, in rare cases, more serious neurological illness.

Devaney said the county uses several factors to determine where mosquito control efforts are needed, including mosquito population levels, resident complaints and data collected through mosquito surveillance.

"Recent rain events have increased mosquito populations," Devaney said. "This has increased mosquito control activities, including spraying."

Devaney said mosquito numbers were initially reduced earlier this season after control efforts were combined with a period of dry weather. However, recent rainfall and other environmental factors have contributed to an increase in mosquito numbers.

"We started with relatively high mosquito populations," Devaney said. "Mosquito control operations coupled with dry conditions have reduced these populations. Recent rain events and lunar tides have caused an uptick in the mosquito numbers, and we have just started to see increased West Nile virus activity."

The county continues collecting mosquito samples throughout the season and uses testing results to help determine where mosquito control efforts are needed.

"We focus on areas that show large mosquito abundance and virus activity, and we reevaluate this daily and target areas accordingly," Devaney said.

While spraying is one part of the county's response, Devaney said it is only one component of a broader mosquito control program.

"We provide a thorough approach which includes source reduction, larval control and adult mosquito control," Devaney said. "Adult mosquito control is a minor but an essential part of our program."

Residents can help reduce mosquito populations around their homes by removing standing water from buckets, containers, planters, birdbaths and other outdoor objects where mosquitoes can breed. Officials also recommend using insect repellent containing DEET when spending time outdoors to help reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Mosquito surveillance and testing will continue throughout the summer and into October, with officials adjusting control efforts based on mosquito populations and testing results.