Two mosquito samples collected from Linwood last week have been confirmed positive for West Nile virus on Sept. 22.
The samples were collected by the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control from the 200-block of Sara Ann Court and the meadows near 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.
Fifteen mosquito collections at eight sampling locations in the county have tested positive for West Nile virus. There are no reported human cases of West Nile virus in Atlantic County at this time.
West Nile virus is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. 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.
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