Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott today reported three new cases of West Nile virus. All three cases were over the age of 50. To date this year, Suffolk County has reported 19 cases of West Nile virus. The first case was reported on August 7.
Two residents from the Town of Brookhaven experienced symptoms of West Nile virus in early September and were hospitalized. One remains hospitalized and one is recovering at a rehabilitation facility.
A resident from the Town of Smithtown was hospitalized with symptoms of West Nile virus in early September and is recovering in a rehabilitation facility.
Suffolk County this year has reported six cases from the Town of Islip, nine from the Town of Brookhaven, two from the Town of Smithtown, and one each from the towns of Huntington and Babylon. All but two cases were over the age of 50.
To date this year, Suffolk County has confirmed the second highest number of cases of West Nile virus in a single year since the county began reporting cases in 2000. The highest number of cases was reported in 2010, when the county confirmed 25 cases, which included three deaths from the virus.
“Autumn is a great time to be outdoors, and while mosquitoes might not be as active as they were in the summer, those that remain could be carrying virus,” said Dr. Pigott. “Continue taking precautions and do seek prompt medical attention if you feel ill after a mosquito bite.”
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of the virus typically occur one to 14 days after a person becomes infected. Mild symptoms may include fever, headache and body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands. More severe symptoms include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis.
West Nile virus can be fatal. Residents who experience symptoms are advised to visit their healthcare providers. Individuals who are most at risk for severe infection include those over 50 years of age and those with chronic illness or compromised immune systems. While there is no specific treatment for West Nile virus, patients may be offered supportive therapy as needed.
To avoid mosquito bites, use insect repellent containing DEET*, spray clothing with repellent containing permethrin, avoid going outside from dusk to dawn when most mosquitoes are active, wear long sleeves and long pants when nighttime activity is unavoidable, eliminate standing water from flowerpots, clogged gutters, recycle bins, birdbaths, toys, swimming pool and hot tub covers.
For information about West Nile virus, including local data regarding infected mosquitoes and West Nile virus cases, visit https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Health-Services/Public-Health/Preventive-Services/Arthropod-borne-Diseases/Mosquitoes
To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.
*Follow label instructions. Consult healthcare provider before using insect repellent on young children.
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