MAYS LANDING - The first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Atlantic County was confirmed earlier today by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services. The individual was hospitalized, but is recovering and has returned to work.

To date there have been four human cases of WNV in NJ in 2010. The other cases were confirmed in Ocean, Essex and Passaic counties.

West Nile virus can be transmitted to birds, animals and humans from infected mosquitoes. The peak incidence of West Nile virus is between July and September, ending with the first hard frosts that kill the mosquitoes. The virus tends to be mild in humans, with flu-like symptoms. People over age 50 and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk to experience more serious illness.

Approximately 80 percent of people infected with WNV will show no symptoms. About 20 percent of cases produce fever, headache and body aches, often with skin rash and swollen lymph glands. Less than one percent of cases show more severe infections marked by headache, high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, stupor, disorientation and convulsions.

According to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health there have been 18 confirmed avian cases of the mosquito-borne virus and 43 positive mosquito samples within the county this year. Additionally, an unvaccinated 2-year-old horse from Atlantic County was euthanized in August after contracting West Nile virus.

"Our findings emphasize the importance of taking precautions to help reduce the risk of exposure to infected mosquitoes," stated Atlantic County Health Officer Patricia Diamond. "This includes removing standing water from properties and using personal protective measures such as insect repellents. Homeowners should also be sure screen doors and windows are in good condition."

To help control mosquito populations and reduce the risk of illness, the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control will conduct two additional ground sprays on Wednesday, September 8 between 5:30 and 6:30 AM in Northfield. This will be the fourth spray conducted in Northfield since July. The areas to be sprayed are: Mt. Vernon to Dolphin Avenue (between First Street and Shore Road) and Steelman Street to Mill Road (between Shore Road and Bay Drive).

According to Mosquito Control Superintendent Bill Reinert, most types of mosquitoes do not travel far from where they breed. There have been a number of positive mosquito samples in Northfield which have prompted multiple ground sprays.

The spray consists of a low volume of Scourge, a trade name for Resmethrin. Neither the federal Environmental Protection Agency nor the state Department of Environmental Protection requires relocating or taking special precautions during mosquito control spraying with this product. Some people, however, may prefer to avoid or minimize exposure by staying indoors, keeping windows shut, shutting off room air conditioners and window fans during spraying, keeping children's toys indoors as well as pets and their supplies.