Northfield has county's first West Nile-positive mosquito of the year

Atlantic County's first mosquito sample of the year to test positive for West Nile virus was collected in Northfield.

Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control collected the sample July 12, from the 1200 block of Zion Road, county spokeswoman Linda Gilmore said.

The virus was confirmed Tuesday.

County public health and mosquito control officials are conducting mosquito surveillance and implementing additional control measures, Gilmore said.

There are no reported human cases of the virus at this time, according to county health officials.

West Nile virus is carried by infected mosquitoes and can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans. 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. 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. 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.