A mosquito sample collected last week in Linwood tested positive for the West Nile virus, Atlantic County officials said.
The sample collected from the meadows near the 2200 block of Brighton Avenue was collected last Tuesday and confirmed this week.
Linwood had another confirmed sample late last month in the 300 block of royal Street.
Positive samples have also been found in Absecon, Buena Borough, Buena Vista Township, Corbin City, Egg Harbor City, Northfield and Pleasantville.
Despite human cases in other parts of the state, there have been done reported in Atlantic County, according to county health officials.
Mosquito ground sprays were conducted by the county earlier this month in portions of Absecon, Pleasantville, Linwood and Somers Point and aerial sprays were performed in August in portions of Galloway Township and Port Republic.
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 their risk and the spread of West Nile virus by reducing 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.
