West Nile virus, EEE detected in Atlantic County mosquito samples

Atlantic County has reported additional samples of mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile virus. The samples were collected by the county’s Office of Mosquito Control in Absecon and Hammonton and confirmed positive for the mosquito-borne illness on Aug. 13.

Prior samples collected from Hammonton and Buena Vista Township tested positive last week. There have been no human cases of West Nile virus reported in Atlantic County to date, however, the first human and horse cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) were confirmed in Atlantic County last week. They were also the first cases in the state this year.

EEE and West Nile virus are transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Officials are conducting increased mosquito surveillance and implementing additional control measures.

Residents are urged to take precautions to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses by limiting 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 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.