Ocean County Freeholder Deputy Director Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health, said, “An Ocean County resident has been identified as the first resident of Ocean County to be infected with the West Nile virus (WNV). The resident has been discharged from the hospital. This is a reminder to all of us that we need to continue being diligent in protecting ourselves and family from mosquitoes.”
Daniel E. Regenye, Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) Public Health Coordinator, said that the OCHD Communicable Disease Unit sends any reports to the Ocean County Mosquito Commission. The Ocean County Mosquito Commission will be increasing surveillance activity in the area and take appropriate preventative action.
According to Jennifer Crawford, Supervisor of the OCHD Communicable Disease Unit, “Regarding West Nile virus, most human WNV infections produce no symptoms or mild or moderate symptoms that include fever, headache and body aches. These symptoms often are accompanied by skin rash and swollen lymph glands but can produce more dangerous conditions among the young or elderly and those persons with chronic diseases or compromised immune systems.”
West Nile virus is mainly transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito; therefore, on-going elimination of mosquito breeding is the key to prevention of West Nile virus transmission. It is extremely important for homeowners to eliminate sources of standing water in their yard where mosquitoes may lay eggs. If conditions are favorable and a mosquito lays eggs in standing water, it is possible that the eggs could hatch within hours. Eliminate areas that can trap water.
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.
Residents are reminded to report dead birds to OCHD by calling 732-341-9700, ext. 7515. The locations of all dead birds are recorded for use by the Ocean County Mosquito Commission. Birds that are suitable for testing will be sent to the State laboratory for WNV testing.
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