Suffolk County today reported one case of West Nile virus in Suffolk County, the first case reported this season statewide.
The individual, who is over the age of 50 and resides in the Town of Islip, began experiencing symptoms consistent with West Nile virus on July 18, was subsequently hospitalized, released in late July, and is now recovering at home.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. It is estimated that 20 percent of those who become infected will develop clinically noticeable symptoms of West Nile virus disease. 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. While there is no specific treatment for West Nile virus, patients may be offered supportive therapy as needed.
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. Suffolk County residents are urged to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes during mosquito season, which extends from June 1 through November 1.
County Executive Ed Romaine encourages residents to cooperate with county officials in reducing the numbers of mosquitoes in their neighborhoods. “While West Nile is not new to Suffolk County, we are seeing high numbers of mosquitoes testing positive for the virus early in the season this year,” said Romaine. “Reducing the number of mosquitoes around your home will reduce your chances of being bitten by an infected mosquito.”
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.
Suffolk County’s first case of West Nile virus was reported in 2001. Last year, the county reported five cases, and in 2022, the county reported 11 cases.
Suffolk County Heath Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott said, “This case has been confirmed very early in the season, and as there are still many weeks of mosquito activity left this season, we urge people older than 50 and others who are at higher risk of having severe symptoms to seek medical attention early if they experience any of the symptoms associated with West Nile virus.”
According to Scott Campbell, PhD, Chief of Suffolk County's Arthropod-borne Disease Laboratory, early reporting of an abundant number of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus may be a cause of concern. In 2010, a year in which the county reported 295 positive mosquito samples beginning in early July (the greatest number found in a single season) the county also reported 25 cases of West Nile virus, including three deaths attributable to the virus. Since 2001, nine people have died from West Nile virus.
“Though we have reported large numbers of positive mosquitoes early this season, the recent heavy rain may be enough to disrupt the cycle, as the heavy rain would have washed many mosquitoes and their larvae away,” said Dr. Campbell.
For information about West Nile virus, including local data regarding infected mosquitoes andWest 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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