New Jersey braces for West Nile spread as mosquitoes reach 12 counties

West Nile virus has been detected in mosquito samples from 12 New Jersey counties, triggering a statewide public health push. State health, environmental and agricultural officials are increasing mosquito-control efforts and advising residents to eliminate standing water, use larvicides where appropriate, and apply EPA-registered repellents to reduce bite risk as mosquito populations grow with warmer weather. Officials caution that older adults and people with certain health conditions are at higher risk for serious illness, and they warn about other mosquito-borne threats like Eastern equine encephalitis and Jamestown Canyon virus as the season progresses.