Authorities Find West Nile Virus in Fifth County of N.J.



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A fifth New Jersey county found mosquito samples positive for West Nile virus this year, which led to increased surveillance of the region. Sites in Northfield, Atlantic County, which have tested positive for infectious virus, which can be deadly.

Linda Gilmore, spokesperson for Atlantic County, told NJ Advance Media that it was the first positive tests for the county. Counties of Bergen, Hunterdon, Somerset and Warren also recorded positive samples early in the year, according to the New Jersey Department of Health online monitoring system.

A total of eight samples were tested positive for the virus. l & # 39; state. However, no report of anyone infected with the virus at that time, according to the tracker of the state.

Although Gilmore stated that positive tests are not unusual for this time of year, especially In the spring, mosquito control officials nevertheless implemented additional control measures and informed residents and businesses in the region

"We knew that mosquitoes will be a problem this year," she said. West Nile virus is transmitted by infected mosquitoes and can be transmitted to animals, birds and humans.

Gilmore stated that the authorities did not intend to use mosquitoes in the area

. If they continue to get positive results, it is possible that they are planning a ground spraying, but for now, no treatment is planned.

To reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, the Atlantic County offered advice:

  • Use an insect repellent when going outdoors.
  • Shred the properties of mosquito breeding grounds by draining stagnant water.
  • Clean gutters and mouthfuls;

For more information on West Nile Virus in New Jersey, visit NJ.gov

Spencer Kent can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent . Find the Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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