The New York State Department of Health informed Suffolk County health officials that three additional mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus. The samples, all of the Culex pipiens-restuans species, were collected on September 25 in Lindenhurst (1), West Babylon (1) and Mattituck (1). There were no new mosquito samples that tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis this week.
To date this season, Suffolk County has reported 77 mosquito samples that have tested positive for West Nile virus and seven that have tested positive for EEE virus. On September 17, Suffolk County reported two human cases of West Nile virus. Suffolk County has had no human cases of EEE virus. No horses have tested positive for EEE virus or West Nile virus in Suffolk County this year.
West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis are transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. West Nile virus may cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Symptoms may include fever, headache, vomiting, muscle aches, joint pain, and fatigue. There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus. Patients are treated with supportive therapy as needed.
“The confirmation of West Nile virus in mosquito samples indicates the presence of West Nile virus in the area,” said Dr. Tomarken. “While there is no cause for alarm, we advise residents to cooperate with us in our efforts to reduce their exposure to the virus, which can be debilitating to humans.”
Individuals, especially those aged 50 or over or those with compromised immune systems are urged to take precautions when outdoors. Residents are advised to use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents. When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Additionally, avoid going outside from dusk to dawn when most mosquitoes are active, wear long sleeves and long pants when night-time activity is unavoidable, eliminate standing water from flowerpots, clogged gutters, recycle bins, birdbaths, toys, and swimming pool and hot tub covers.
To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.
For further information on mosquito-borne illnesses, visit the Department of Health Services’ website.
To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.
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