Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) Public Health Coordinator, has received an additional report of West Nile Virus in a southern Ocean County resident who is recovering from the illness.   This resident had additional underlying health conditions. This brings the total of reported West Nile Virus infections in Ocean County to eight.

            Regenye said, “Once again, the OCHD is urging people to continue their vigilant efforts against mosquitoes.  Even with the cooler weather, mosquitoes are still active.  Also, we have had quite a bit of rain, which offers mosquitoes additional breeding areas.  With the cooler weather, the OCHD suggests long pants and long sleeves when outside.  People should continue to 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.” 

            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.”

            Jennifer Crawford, Supervisor of the OCHD Communicable Disease Unit said, “Most human WNV infections produce no symptoms or mild to moderate symptoms that include fever, headache and body aches and may be accompanied by a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. More dangerous conditions among the young or elderly and persons with chronic diseases or compromised immune systems have been reported.”

        “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 Crawford.

        Leslie Terjesen, OCHD Public Information Officer 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