Another West Nile Virus Case in Atlantic County

Another Atlantic County mosquito sample has tested positive for West Nile virus.

The sample was collected on September 2 from the 700 block of Debora Street in Northfield and confirmed for the mosquito-borne illness on September 9, according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health.

Another Positive WNV Sample in Atlantic County

This is the latest in a series of West Nile virus-positive samples found in Atlantic County this year, with others previously reported in Northfield, Linwood, Pleasantville, and Ventnor in July and August.

A child also tested positive for West Nile virus in the third week of July in Atlantic County.

Most people infected with West Nile virus experience mild, flu-like symptoms, if any at all. However, severe illness may develop and affect the central nervous system, resulting in hospitalization or death.

Symptoms of West Nile Virus

Symptoms of West Nile range from mild to severe and include headache, fever, and sore throat; lack of appetite; muscle aches; nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea; rash; and swollen lymph nodes.

Symptoms usually last several days and up to a month in more severe cases.

How to Protect Your Family From West Nile Virus

You can reduce your risk of being exposed to and spreading mosquito-borne diseases by:

- Using an insect repellent whenever outdoors

- Wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants

Wearing clothing and gear treated with permethrin

- Ridding your property of mosquito breeding grounds by draining standing water. This includes buckets, bird baths, flower pots, and other containers that hold water.

- Cleaning clogged gutters

- Checking and repairing screen doors

Get more information by visiting the atlanticcountynj.gov or calling the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control at 609-645-5948.