September 14, 2012
Seven Additional Mosquito Samples Test Positive
for West Nile Virus
Health Commissioner asks residents to eliminate stagnant water near homes
Hauppauge, NY – Suffolk County Health Services (SCDHS) Commissioner James L. Tomarken announced that seven additional mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus. The mosquito samples, collected between September 6 and 7, were from locations in Amagansett, East Northport, Nesconset, Ridge, Manorville, Selden and Southold. To date this year, 208 mosquito samples and a total of 38 birds have tested positive for the virus.
As previously reported two human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Suffolk County this year. Both persons had been hospitalized and have recovered and been released from the hospital.
Dr. Tomarken asks residents to reduce the mosquito population around homes, by eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed and to continue to reduce exposure to mosquitoes whenever possible. 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
As of August 31, 2012, the Department of Health Services discontinued collecting and testing dead birds for West Nile virus.
For medical questions related to West Nile virus, call 631-854-0333 during normal business hours.
To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.