What is EEE?

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but serious virus transmitted to other birds, humans, horses and other animals by mosquitoes.

Atlantic County works closely with Rutgers University and the New Jersey State Mosquito Commission to monitor for EEE in mosquitoes.

Has EEE Been Found in Atlantic County?

For decades, levels of EEE have been low throughout the county, thanks to the comprehensive efforts of the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control ». County officials aggressively work to reduce the mosquito population and test for mosquito-borne diseases.

In 2019, several mosquito samples have tested positive for EEE and the first human case in a county resident has been confirmed among a total of three in New Jersey.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis has been reported in 65 mosquito samples in 13 New Jersey counties.

Protect Yourself

County residents can protect themselves from EEE and other mosquito borne diseases like West Nile Virus by following these standard precautions:

• Avoid mosquito bites by using an insect repellent whenever you go outdoors. According to the Centers for Disease Control, only repellents containing DEET offer long-lasting protection after a single application. Be sure to follow product directions carefully and use repellent containing less than 10 percent DEET on children.
• Rid your property of mosquito breeding grounds by draining standing water. 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.
• For more information, call the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5971 or the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control at (609) 645-5948.