Two More Mosquito Samples Test Positive for EEE in Atlantic County

The Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control says two more mosquito samples collected from resting boxes on November 6th have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

Officials say one sample was collected from Mullica Township and the other was from Corbin City.

This marks the second confirmed cases of EEE from both municipalities this year. One other positive sample was found in Hamilton Township in late September.

So far in 2020, the CDC has reported nine confirmed cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in people in the following states: Indiana (1), Massachusetts (4), Michigan (2), and in Wisconsin (2).

In 2019, several mosquito samples tested positive for EEE and an Atlantic County resident was one of three human cases statewide. In that case, County Executive Dennis Levinson told KYW-TV, "We cannot stress enough the importance of protecting yourself and your loved ones. We all need to do our best to ‘Fight the bite.’ And anyone who experiences symptoms following a mosquito bite should seek medical assistance."

Officials say Eastern Equine Encephalitis is a rare but serious virus transmitted by mosquitoes to birds, horses, and other animals. Transmission to humans is possible.

County residents can help protect themselves from Eastern Equine Encephalitis by following standard, common precautions, like using insect repellent whenever outdoors, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and removing standing water to limit where mosquitoes may breed.

If you have any questions or concerns about Eastern Equine Encephalitis, contact the Atlantic County Office of Mosquito Control at (609) 645-5948.