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The Atlantic County Division of Public Health has reported the first case of West Nile virus in a county resident after receiving confirmation from the state on Oct. 4. The resident did not require hospitalization and is recovering under doctor's care, according to a release.
As of Sept. 29, there were 43 cases of West Nile virus in New Jersey. State regulations prevent announcing the municipality where the resident lives, Atlantic County Public Information Officer Linda Gilmore said.
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, skin rashes and swollen lymph glands.
While the risk among the general population is very low, West Nile virus can pose a greater risk to the elderly or those with compromised immune systems, Atlantic County Health Officer Patricia Diamond said.
There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus. Most people recover completely within two weeks. In more severe infections, intensive supportive therapy may be needed. About one in every 150 people infected develop a serious illness.
This has been a particularly active year for mosquitoes due to large amounts of rain, Atlantic County Mosquito Control Superintendent Doug Abdill said. We encourage everyone to do their part in reducing mosquito populations by removing standing water from their properties. Thankfully, the height of mosquito season is behind us so we hope to see improvement with a reduction in mosquito populations.
For more information about West Nile Virus visit www.aclink.org/publichealth or call the Division of Public Health at 609-645-5971.
If you need assistance in addressing stagnant puddles or floodwater on your property, call the Office of Mosquito Control at 609-645-5948.
