August 6, 2012
One Confirmed Human Case of West Nile Virus
One possible case still pending
Hauppauge, NY – Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Services James L. Tomarken said today that the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has confirmed one human case of West Nile virus, the first confirmed case of the virus in Suffolk County this year.
An adult who is younger than 55 years of age and from the Town of Babylon experienced fever, headache, muscles aches and a stiff neck. The individual was hospitalized for four days, beginning on July 30, 2012, and has since recovered.
NYSDOH is also investigating another human case that is being considered as probable for West Nile virus. The individual was hospitalized for several days in July and has fully recovered. Confirmation of the virus will be dependent on the results of further testing.
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.
Dr. Tomarken asks residents to reduce the mosquito population around homes, by eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. The county offers an informative bulletin entitled “Mosquitoes and Mosquito-borne Illnesses,” which 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
Dead birds found on area properties may indicate the presence of West Nile virus in the area. To report dead birds, call the West Nile virus hotline in Suffolk County at 631-787-2200 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. 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 631-853-3055.