Atlantic County, NJ, Confirms First Human Case of West Nile Virus

Officials in Atlantic County are reporting the first human case of West Nile Virus since 2019.

A press release from county health officials Sunday morning did not include any specific information except for, "It has not been determined where the individual may have been bitten but the patient is recovering well."

"West Nile virus is carried by infected mosquitoes and can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus. The best way to prevent the disease is to avoid mosquito bites," said a press release.

County officials have confirmed West Nile virus in 17 mosquito collections this year from Buena Borough, Egg Harbor City, Galloway, Hammonton, Hamilton Township, Mullica, Northfield, Somers Point, and Weymouth Township.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control, there have been 28 human cases of West Nile virus in the Garden State this year compared to only three in 2020.

For more information about West Nile Virus, you can call the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5971. If you need assistance in removing stagnant puddles or floodwater from your property to reduce the spread of mosquitoes, call the Office of Mosquito Control at (609) 645-5948.