West Nile Virus Found in Mosquitoes in Atlantic County

ATLANTIC COUNTY, N.J. — Officials said Wednesday that two mosquito groups collected recently in Atlantic County tested positive for West Nile virus. The infected mosquitoes were caught in Pleasantville on West Park Avenue and in Ventnor on Kingsley Avenue. This discovery comes after a prior detection earlier this season in Linwood on Royal Avenue. Health authorities and mosquito control crews are increasing surveillance and treatment efforts in these neighborhoods to limit the risk of the virus spreading. So far, no humans in the county have been reported to have contracted West Nile virus.  West Nile virus is spread primarily through mosquito bites and can infect birds, animals, and people. To help protect themselves, residents are encouraged to use insect repellents approved by the EPA, remove standing water around their homes to reduce mosquito breeding, keep gutters free of debris, and repair damaged screens on windows and doors. For questions or more information, the public is invited to access resources on the Atlantic County website or contact the Division of Public Health at 609-645-5971. Concerns related to mosquito activity can be reported to the Office of Mosquito Control at 609-645-5948. Authorities urge residents to remain cautious throughout the mosquito season and adopt preventive measures to reduce the chance of infection.