For Immediate Release

September 29, 2021

West Nile Virus Confirmed in Three Recent Mosquito Collections

Mosquito collections from three Atlantic County locations have tested positive for West Nile virus.

Samples collected by the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control from Birch Grove Park and the 1200 block of Zion Road in Northfield and the 100 block of West End Avenue/Pleasant Street in Hammonton were all confirmed positive for the virus on September 27. The Zion Road sample also tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

Both West Nile virus and EEE are transmitted by infected mosquitoes. There are no reported human cases of either virus in Atlantic County at this time.

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

Health officials encourage residents to reduce their risk of infection by reducing their exposure to mosquito bites. Some tips for doing so include:

* 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 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.