Atlantic County public health and mosquito control officials are urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites after five additional mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus this week.
The positive samples were collected on July 8 from the 100 block of Cumberland Avenue in Estell Manor, the 700 block of Debora Street in Northfield, Plaza Place in Pleasantville, S. Holly Hills Drive in Somers Point, and the 600 block of Kingsley Avenue in Ventnor.
Three previous samples collected from Absecon, Linwood and Somers Point were confirmed positive for West Nile virus last week.
County public health and mosquito control officials continue to conduct mosquito surveillance and implement additional control measures.
There are no reported human cases of the virus in New Jersey, according to county health officials. Officials report more positive samples earlier in the season this year which may be related to warmer water and air temperatures that created the ideal hatching environment.
Mosquito-borne diseases can be passed to humans by the bite of infected mosquitoes. West Nile virus is transmitted to mosquitoes by infected birds.
Health officials encourage residents to reduce their risk and the spread of West Nile virus by reducing 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.atlanticcountynj.gov 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.
