The Camden County Health Department recently detected another probable case of West Nile Virus, bringing the total to five.
A positive laboratory test result for the virus was reported to the county Department of Health and Human Services (CCDHHS).
“Although we are transitioning into fall, the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses are still present and residents should take precautions like wearing long sleeved shirts and pants when possible, using bug spray and removing standing water on their property,” said Commissioner Virginia Betteridge.
“The Mosquito Control Commission has also completed additional spraying, treating, trapping and mosquito testing in the area.”
Symptoms of the virus include – but are not limited to – fever, headache, altered mental status and other neurologic dysfunctions. West Nile is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the U.S., though four out of five people infected don’t experience symptoms.
Only 1 in 50 infected people will develop a serious illness. To date, there have been 16 West Nile cases in New Jersey this year.
The best protection is insect repellent – safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women – recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency with one of the following active ingredients:
- DEET
- Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the U.S.)
- IR3535
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
- Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
- 2-undecanone
During the summer and fall months, the Camden County Mosquito Commission schedules spraying on an as-needed basis, based upon the results of surveillance efforts and input from the public.
For more information about the virus, visit the CDC’s information webpage here. To report a problem, contact the Camden County Mosquito Commission at (856) 566-2945 or skeeters@camdencounty.com.
