October 10, 2012
Fourth Human Case of West Nile Virus
Great River, NY – Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Services James L. Tomarken confirmed today a fourth human case of West Nile virus in Suffolk County this year. The individual, who is under 55 years of age, resides in Brookhaven. The patient was admitted to the hospital in early September and displayed symptoms consistent with West Nile virus. The patient is recovering and currently undergoing rehabilitation.
The Suffolk County Department of Health Services previously reported three confirmed cases of West Nile virus: one an Islip resident over 55 years of age, one a Town of Babylon resident under 55 years of age and another a Huntington resident who is over 55 years of age. All are in various stages of recovery.
The department is awaiting the results from the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) on eight additional cases that are currently being considered as probable cases of West Nile virus.
The NYSDOH has confirmed that a horse from East Hampton tested positive for West Nile virus in September and has since recovered. It is the only confirmed case of West Nile virus in a horse in Suffolk County this year.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause serious illness and, in some cases, death. It is estimated that 20 percent of those who become infected will develop clinically noticeable symptoms of West Nile virus disease. Mild symptoms include fever, headache and body aches, and occasionally a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. Residents who experience any of these symptoms are advised to visit their health care providers.
The county offers an informative bulletin entitled “Mosquitoes and Mosquito-borne Illnesses,” that contains tips on personal protection and repellents. To download the brochure, visit: http://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Portals/0/Documents%20and%20Forms/Health%20Services/Seasonal/Mosquito%20Brochure.pdf
To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.
For medical questions related to West Nile virus, call 631-854-0333. This is a new number.