Suffolk County Health Commissioner James L. Tomarken, MD, MPH, MBA, MSW, announced today that mosquito samples taken from Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown (1) and Gardiner County Park in West Bay Shore (1) have tested positive for West Nile virus. The samples, both Culex pipiens-restuans, were collected on August 12^th. The Suffolk County Department of Parks has been notified and advised to suspend activities in both parks during the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 a.m.

Weather permitting, the Suffolk County Department of Public Works will treat Elwood, East Northport, Rocky Point, and Fire Island, as part of its ongoing effort to control adult mosquitoes. 

September is Falls Prevention Month

County Executive Steve Bellone and Commissioner of Health Services James Tomarken, MD, MPH, MBA, MSW, today announced that Suffolk County will be expanding its popular falls prevention program, offering workshops at venues throughout the county this September, Falls Prevention Month. The programs aim to empower mature adults to carry out behaviors that reduce the risks of falls and improve their quality of life.