Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Northfield Mosquito Sample Tests Positive for West Nile Virus

A mosquito sample collected from Northwood Court in Northfield has been confirmed positive for West Nile Virus, announced the Atlantic County Division of Public Health.

Infected mosquitoes can transmit West Nile Virus to birds, animals and humans. Crows are particularly susceptible to the virus and are good indicators of the presence of the disease in a specific area. Sick birds or birds that have died within the past 24 hours may be reported and evaluated for testing.

Positive mosquito samples were found last month in both Northfield and Linwood. Northwood Court, the location of the most recent confirmation, is near Birch Grove Park in Northfield where several positive samples were found last year.

County public health and mosquito control officials continue to conduct mosquito surveillance and implement additional control measures within the collection site vicinities.

Residents are reminded of the importance of taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of West Nile Virus. They include:

* Avoid mosquito bites by using 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.
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. Mosquitoes do not travel far from where they breed.

* Clean clogged gutters; check and repair screen doors.
 
* Report dead or sick birds to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health by calling 609-645-5971.

For more information about West Nile Virus, visit the Atlantic County Web site at: www.aclink.org/publichealth/westnile

For information and assistance in removing stagnant water from your property, call the Office of Mosquito Control at (609) 645-5948.
 

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