For Immediate Release

August 16, 2018

Four More Positive WNV Mosquito Samples Reported in Atlantic County

The Atlantic County Division of Public Health is conducting further mosquito surveillance and implementing additional control measures in portions of Hammonton, Pleasantville, and Northfield where four new mosquito pool samples have tested positive for West Nile Virus as of August 15.

The recent positive samples were found in the vicinity of Mill Run Drive and Horton Street in Hammonton, Montclair Drive in Pleasantville, and Birch Grove Park in Northfield. Previous positive samples were found in Northfield and Linwood in July.

West Nile Virus is carried by infected mosquitoes and can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans. Most infected humans will not develop symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control, but those who do may experience a fever, headache and body aches, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.

State health officials recently confirmed the first human case of West Nile Virus in 2018 in a 74-year-old Hunterdon County man.

“No human cases of West Nile Virus have been found in Atlantic County this year, but we urge residents to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites and their properties from becoming mosquito breeding grounds,” stated Patricia Diamond, Atlantic County Public Health Officer.

Health officials encourage residents to reduce their risk and the spread of West Nile Virus 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.