New Jersey prepares to fight Zika virus

NEW JERSEY (FOX 5 NEWS) - Bergen County is one of several New Jersey counties going on the offense in prevention of the Zika virus. Researchers at Rutgers University recently determined it could be July before any mosquitoes capable of transmitting Zika establish themselves here.

The news comes as doctors at Hackensack University Medical Center delivered a baby girl with a Zika-related condition on Tuesday. Her mother was bitten by mosquitoes in Honduras.

Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco is quick to point out there is no cause for any public alarm, but plenty of ways for the public to help. He urges residents to use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves and long pants, and to eliminate standing water on.

In the woods at Argonne Park, mosquito larvae were found and easier to control since they're not adults. The warmer months will keep crews busy, but their sprayers are ready.

Most municipalities have hotlines set up with information on mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses. If you have any questions you are encouraged to give them a call.