Additional West Nile Samples Found in Suffolk

Suffolk County Health Services (SCDHS) Commissioner James L. Tomarken
announced Thursday that 46 additional mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus in Suffolk County.

The mosquito samples, collected between July 24 and July 28, were from locations in Holtsville, Huntington Station, North Babylon, Yaphank (2), Rocky Point, East Northport, Northport (2), Farmingville (3), Copiague (4), Port Jefferson Station (2), West Islip (2), South Huntington, Lindenhurst (3), West Babylon (11), East Setauket (2), Ridge (2), Brentwood (2), Dix Hills, Nesconset (2), Mattituck and Greenlawn.

To date this year, 125 mosquito samples -- all Culex pipiens-restuans -- and thirteen birds have tested positive for the virus.

New York State is currently investigating one human case that is being considered as probable for West Nile virus. The individual was hospitalized for several days and has fully recovered. Confirmation of West Nile virus will be dependent on the results of further testing. 

“Though the number of mosquitoes testing positive is historically high for this time of year, we cannot predict if the numbers will continue to be high,” said SCDH Commissioner Dr. James L. Tomarken. “There are many factors, such as weather, that affect mosquito population and activity. Given that the numbers are high and we are finding samples in virtually all parts of the county, we ask that residents be especially vigilant about reducing their exposure to mosquitoes whenever they can.”

The county had reported three positive mosquito samples by this date last year and 19 positive samples by this date in 2010, a year in which the county had 295 positive mosquito samples in total. In 2010, New York State confirmed 25 human cases of West Nile virus, three of those resulting in death.

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.

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.