For Immediate Release

September 5, 2019

Atlantic County Reports Additional Positive West Nile Virus Mosquito Samples

Two additional mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile Virus according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health. These samples were found at the Lawrence “Bud” Kern Field in Somers Point and in the 500 block of Ridgewood Drive in Northfield. Both were confirmed positive on September 4.

Previous positive samples were collected from Zion Road in Northfield in July and Horton Street in Hammonton in August.

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

Atlantic County Public Health Officer Patricia Diamond said it was not unusual to find positive samples at this time of year but encouraged residents to reduce their exposure to mosquito bites with the following tips:

* 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 which 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 Web site 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.