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For Immediate Release |
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Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Second Mosquito Sample Tests Positive for West Nile Virus
Second Mosquito Sample Tests Positive for West Nile Virus
A second mosquito sample within Atlantic County has tested positive for West Nile virus. The most recent sample comes from Egg Harbor City in the vicinity of 10th and Duerer Street. It was collected on July 19 and confirmed positive through state laboratory testing on July 23. A sample collected on July 11 in Birch Grove Park, Northfield, tested positive for West Nile virus last week.
“It is not unusual to have two positive samples at this time of year,” stated Bill Reinert, Department Head of Public Works and former Mosquito Superintendent. “Since 2008, the first positive results have been found in early July or August. This year we have actually noticed a decrease in the mosquito populations due to the hot, dry weather we’ve experienced. But residents can be assured that we continue to provide surveillance and implement control measures.”
West Nile virus can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans from infected mosquitoes. Crows are particularly vulnerable to the virus. Testing crows and other birds that have been dead for no more than 24 hours can help health officials determine if the virus is present in a particular region.
Statewide, mosquitos have tested positive in 19 of the 21 counties thus far this year, and birds have tested positive in six counties, but none in Atlantic County.
Although many people are bitten by mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus, few people develop severe disease or even notice any symptoms at all, according to the National Institutes of Health. Symptoms of the disease may last for 3-6 days and include: abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, headache, lack of appetite, muscle aches, nausea, rash, sore throat, swollen lymph glands and vomiting. Risk factors for developing a more severe form of West Nile virus include: conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV, organ transplants, and recent chemotherapy; older or very young age; and pregnancy.
Health officials encourage residents to prevent the spread of West Nile virus by following these simple steps:
* Avoid mosquito bites by using 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 which 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. 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.
* Report dead birds to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health by calling 609-645-5971.
For more information about West Nile Virus, visit the Atlantic County Web site at: www.aclink.org/publichealth or call our Mosquito Control and West Nile Virus hotline at 877-643-2287. For information or assistance in draining standing water from your property, call the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control at 609-645-5948.
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