West Nile Virus Detected in Rockaway Township Mosquito Pool

Residents urged to take precautions as Morris County takes action to control mosquito population.

ROCKAWAY TOWNSHIP, N.J. — The Morris County Division of Mosquito Control has confirmed that a mosquito pool in Rockaway Township tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) during routine testing on September 11, 2024. The positive pool was located in a small area near Valley Road.

To prevent the spread of the virus, the Division of Mosquito Control plans to treat the affected area with synthetic pyrethroid insecticides, which are highly effective in controlling mosquito populations. The insecticide will be applied during the early morning hours, and due to its quick dissipation, it is not expected to pose long-term environmental risks.

Residents are advised to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites, particularly as mosquitoes carrying WNV can pose a health risk. Suggested precautions include repairing door and window screens, limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (dawn, dusk, and evening), wearing long-sleeved clothing, and using insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing as directed. In addition, residents should eliminate sources of standing water where mosquitoes breed, such as in flowerpots, buckets, tires, and birdbaths, which should be emptied and refilled weekly.

The Rockaway Township Division of Health is available to answer general questions about mosquito-borne diseases and mosquito control efforts at 973-983-2848. For residents experiencing mosquito problems or noticing standing water, reports can be made to the Morris County Division of Mosquito Control at 973-285-6450.

For further information about mosquito control efforts in Morris County, including updates on where and when spraying will occur, visit the Division of Mosquito Control’s website at www.morriscountynj.gov/mosquito.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about WNV and other mosquito-borne diseases, such as Eastern Equine Encephalitis, by consulting the Morris County Mosquito Control Division's resources available online.