Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) Public Health Coordinator, had received two additional reports of West Nile Virus in Ocean County residents; one resulting in death.  This elderly resident had additional health conditions.

            Regenye said, “Once again, the OCHD is urging people to continue their vigilant efforts against mosquitoes.  People should use mosquito repellent containing DEET on their body or clothing when outside. Make sure you read the directions regarding its use on children.  Look around your property for standing water and remove as soon as possible so it does not become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.  Mosquitoes can remain active during the fall; with cooler weather expected, the OCHD suggest long pants and long sleeves when outside.”

            Regenye added, “West Nile Virus is in the environment in Ocean County and we warn all residents of every area of Ocean County to take precautions.”

            “The mosquitoes feed on the birds, causing them to become infected with WNV.  WNV is mainly transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito; therefore, on-going elimination of mosquito breeding is the key to prevention of WNV transmission,” added Regenye.

        Leslie Terjesen said, “Residents’ participation in the elimination of standing water around the home is critically important.  Homeowners can help curb the mosquito population by monitoring common mosquito breeding grounds including:

·      Bird baths - change the water at least once or twice a week, cleaning the bath on a
regular basis

·      Outdoor pet dishes - change the water daily, not only to prevent mosquito breeding, but also for your pet's health

·      Flower pots - remove any overflow water that has collected in the dish beneath the pot or the pot itself

·      Ponds - consider purchasing mosquito-eating fish if the pond is serving as a mosquito breeding site and cannot be drained

·      Tires; if you use one as a swing, drill a whole large enough in the bottom of it to drain any water

·      Gutters - clean and remove debris on a regular basis to prevent water from collecting

·      Wheelbarrows

·      Wading pools

·      Trash can lids and recycling bins

·      Puddles/ditches in your yard or driveway - fill or drain ditches and swampy areas, and other soil depressions and remove, drain, or fill tree holes and stumps with mortar or sealant to prevent accumulation of water

·      Swimming pools (not in use) - keep pool water aerated and chlorinated; cover when not in use

In addition to eliminating standing water around the home, residents should take the following precautions:

·      Limit outdoor activities at dawn and dusk, when possible

·      Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants whenever outdoors, weather permitting

·      Make sure screen doors and windows are in good condition

·      When going outside, use an insect repellent containing DEET on skin or clothing, or a repellent containing permethrin on clothing.  DO NOT use repellants on children less than 3 years old. ALWAYS USE REPELLANTS ACCORDING TO THE DIRECTIONS ON THE LABEL

There are additional steps that individuals can take to minimize mosquito breeding on their property:

·      Dispose of or remove buckets, aluminum cans, plastic sheeting, or other refuse that can hold water

·      Remove any standing water on flat roofs or around structures

·      Repair leaking faucets and air conditioners that produce puddles for several days

·      Eliminate standing water and seepage around animal watering troughs, cisterns, and septic tanks. Be sure that cistern screens are intact and that access covers fit tightly

·      Irrigate lawns and gardens carefully to prevent water from standing for several days