Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus in Cape May County

COURT HOUSE – To date, the Cape May County Department of Mosquito Control has collected mosquitoes that were positive for West Nile Virus, WNV. The mosquitoes were isolated in the lower and middle parts of the county. New Jersey has seen an increase in positive mosquito pools since late August. This information helps the Department to pinpoint control measures to reduce the chance of transmission. The Department of Mosquito Control regularly tests for WNV, and other mosquito-borne diseases and strategies where to spray for mosquitoes. Cape May County will continue to see mosquitoes till the first frost, so until then continue to protect yourself and your families form mosquito bites.
“At this time, the virus has been isolated from Culex mosquitoes that are known vectors of West Nile to birds and humans and therefore we are monitoring the situation closely and spraying around the affected areas” said Peter Bosak, PhD, Director of the Cape May County Department of Mosquito Control. “Knowing that WNV is here in the County is a good reminder for our residents and visitors to protect themselves against mosquito bites by covering up, using mosquito repellent, especially during the morning hours, and early evening when mosquitoes are most active,” said Kevin Thomas, Health Officer of Cape May County Department of Health.
West Nile is a virus most commonly spread to people by mosquito bites. In North America, cases of West Nile virus, WNV, occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall. WNV cases have been reported throughout the continental United States. There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV. Most people infected with WNV do not have symptoms. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. Mosquitoes can bite at any time of day, but are particularly active during the early morning hours, and during the early evening hours. To protect yourself you can wear long-sleeved shirts, long slacks and use mosquito repellent when outdoors during these times. It is also important to eliminate standing water on your property that may serve as a habitat for mosquitoes, and repair broken screens.
For information about West Nile virus, or other mosquito-borne diseases, call the Health Department at 465-1209 or check the Department’s website at www.cmchealth.net. Cape May County Mosquito Commission can be reached at (609) 465-9038. To learn about public health news and local events, “like” the Cape May County Department of Health on Facebook.