County Executive Dennis Levinson is urging residents to take precautions to reduce their risk of mosquito-borne illness after West Nile virus was confirmed in mosquito samples collected by the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control from two new locations: Montclair Drive and Edgemoor Avenue in Pleasantville and the 100 block of Buena Drive in Buena Borough.
Positive samples have also been found in Absecon, Buena Vista Township, Egg Harbor City, Linwood and Northfield, according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health. No human cases have been reported in the county at this time.
“It is not uncommon to find West Nile virus in mosquito samples this time of year, which is why we are reminding residents to ‘fight the bite’ by protecting themselves from mosquito-bites,” said Levinson.
Across the state, West Nile virus has been found in 525 mosquito samples in 2023 compared to 472 mosquito samples this same time last year. Of the state’s 21 counties, only Cumberland has yet to report a mosquito sample that tested positive for West Nile virus.
Atlantic County public health and mosquito control officials are conducting ongoing mosquito surveillance and implementing additional control measures.
West Nile virus is carried by infected mosquitoes and can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans. West Nile virus can cause serious illness, even death. Health officials encourage residents to reduce exposure to mosquitoes 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; cut high grass around yard
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.
