Watch CBS News

Camden County's First Case Of West Nile Virus For 2015 Confirmed

BELLMAWR, NJ (CBS) – Officials say a 60-year-old Bellmawr resident has been confirmed as Camden County's first case of West Nile Virus this year.

Authorities say on July 12, the man was admitted to Kennedy Health System in Stratford with symptoms that had started at the end of June. Five days later, he was released from the hospital.

According to the CDC, the main route of human infection is through the bite of an infected mosquito. Officials say individuals over the age of 50 are more likely to develop serious symptoms of West Nile Virus, and should take special care to avoid being bitten.

"The Camden County Health Department encourages you to use insect repellents and take extra precautions if you are outside during peak biting hours. You may also want to wear long sleeves and long pants if you are in your yard between dusk and dawn," said Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez, liaison to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services.

Officials say residents should check their property for any object that contains water for more than a few days. They say swimming pools are a common problem.

The Camden County Mosquito Commission suggests checking around yards for mosquito breeding containers. Officials say the checklist contains of tips to help eliminate mosquito breeding:

• Dispose of unnecessary containers that hold water. Containers you wish to save turn upside down or put holes in the bottom so all water drains out.
• Lift up flowerpots and dump the water from the dish underneath every week.
• Stock fish or add mosquito larvicide to ornamental ponds.
• Change water in bird baths, fountains, and animal troughs weekly.
• Screen vents to septic and other water tanks.
• Store small boats upside down and large boats so they drain. If covered, keep the tarp tight so water does not pool on top of the tarp.
• Do not dump leaves or grass clippings into a catch basin or streams.
• Do not allow water to collect on sagging tarps or awnings.
• Do not allow trashcan lids to fill with water.
• Check downspouts that are able to hold enough water to allow mosquito larvae to mature.

For more information contact the Camden County Mosquito Commission at 856-566-2945 or skeeters@camdencounty.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.