Communities are getting aware while going outdoors to take extra precautions after more mosquito samples are detected positive for West Nile virus, providing rules about mosquito prevention across North Jersey.

No human cases in North Jersey have been reported but County officials started with the “Bergen Bites Back” initiative which includes mosquito surveillance, breeding-site control, mosquito spraying and public education.   

Recent rainfall can also be a problem regarding mosquito population growth, because mosquitoes can also breed in small amounts of standing water around people’s houses. Bergen Communities are getting instructions that they must empty their buckets, flowerpots, clogged gutters and other outdoor containers. 

Bergen County’s mosquito control program has started targeting mosquito spraying in communities where control measures are considered essential. North Jersey Communities in affected areas must go through Bergen County’s latest spray schedule and obeying instructions, which includes closing your home windows during scheduled applications. 

Health officials also suggested using EPA-registered insect repellent when spending time outdoors and also wearing full sleeves clothes & pants when practical. Even people must consider not going outdoors for activities too much when mosquitoes are most active.

Eliminating mosquito breeding sites and following local mosquito-control instructions can support families as well as protect them for their health safety.