COURT HOUSE – While there has been no reported cases of a mosquito carrying the Zika Virus in Cape May County at this time, the county is taking precautions against the virus. Individuals traveling to areas with mosquitoes carrying the virus, such as South American, Caribbean, and Central American, need to take proper precaution.
The Health Officer of Cape May County Department of Health, Kevin Thomas said, “I understand the increased concern about Zika Virus. The Cape May County Department of Health is working diligently with Cape May County Department of Mosquito Control to monitor the situation. We will take all precautions to keep Cape May County citizens and visitors safe.”
Transmission:
A majority of individuals that became infected with Zika was by a mosquito bite. There has been one confirmed case of the virus being sexually transmitted. If an individual has been to a country or territory with Zika Virus they should refrain from sexual activity for at least two weeks. A mother can pass the virus to her baby during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant or planning on getting pregnant should refrain from vising countries and/ or territories that have mosquitos carrying the Zika Virus.
Zika virus spreads to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus), but can also spread during sex by a person infected with Zika to his or her sex partners. The mosquitoes that spread Zika virus are aggressive daytime biters.
Although Aedes aegypti is not established in New Jersey the less competent, or secondary, vector of Zika virus, Aedes albopictus, is present in New Jersey. Their habitats include natural and artificial containers.
You and your neighbors can help the Department of Mosquito Control and the Department of Health in their mission to control the mosquito population by eliminating sources of standing water around your home or place of business.
Precautions Being Taken in Cape May County:
Cape May County is fortunate to have the Cape May County Department of Mosquito Control. The Cape May County Department of Mosquito Control works year round to keep our mosquito population to a tolerable level. The mission of the Cape May County Department of Mosquito Control is stressing environmental safety, economics, efficacy, research and surveillance in order to protect the health and welfare of the citizens and visitors of Cape May County.
Travel Advisory:
Because Zika infection in a pregnant woman can cause severe birth defects, pregnant women should not travel to these areas. All travelers should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites and prevent sexual transmission during and after the trip. Check the Center of Disease Control and Prevention web site for the most up-to-date information before you make travel plans. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/avoid-bug-bites
Precautions:
* Choose a hotel or lodging with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors.
* Sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are outside or in a room that is not well screened.
* Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants that are light colored.
* Apply insect repellent containing DEET when outside.
Symptoms:
* Fever
* Rash
* Joint Pain
* Conjunctivitis (Red Eye)
* Muscle Pain
* Headache
Only 20 percent of individuals who contract the virus will experience the symptoms listed. If you feel that you have come in contact with the Zita Virus please consult your primary care provider.
Additional Information:
Additional information can be found at www.cmchealth.net or by liking Cape May County Department of Health on Facebook, or call (609) 465-1200.
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