For Immediate Release

August 7, 2018

Atlantic County Reports Positive West Nile Virus Sample in Linwood

An additional mosquito sample has tested positive for West Nile Virus following two earlier positive samples found in Northfield in early July, according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health. The latest positive sample was collected on July 24 from the meadows in Linwood in the vicinity of the 2200 block of Brighton Avenue.

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

“This is the time of year when positive samples are most likely,” noted Atlantic County Public Health Officer Patricia Diamond, “which is why we remind the public to be vigilant in taking the necessary precautions.”

The New Jersey Department of Health data from July 28 indicated that all but two of the state’s 21 counties (Passaic and Union counties) had reported positive West Nile Virus samples, but no human cases of the virus had yet been reported in the state this year.

West Nile Virus is carried by infected mosquitoes and can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans. Health officials encourage residents to reduce their risk and the spread of West Nile Virus by reducing their exposure to mosquito bites by following these 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.