Six More Mosquito Samples Test Positive for West Nile Virus

LongIsland.com

County residents and visitors are advised to take precautions.

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On Thursday, Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott announced that six more mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile Virus. The samples were collected on July 20, 2021 from West Babylon, West Islip, Holbrook, Selden, and Southold. To date this season, Suffolk County has reported nine mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus.

 

West Nile virus, first detected in birds and mosquito samples in Suffolk County in 1999 and again each year thereafter is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.

 

Most people infected with West Nile virus will experience mild or no symptoms, but some can develop more severe symptoms including high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, and  tremors, among others.Symptoms can last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent. Individuals, especially those 50 years of age or older, or those with compromised immune systems, who are most at risk, are urged to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. 

 

“The confirmation of West Nile virus in mosquito samples indicates the presence of West Nile virus in the area,” said Dr. Pigott. “While there is no cause for alarm, we advise residents to cooperate with us in our efforts to reduce exposure to West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.” 

 

Dr. Pigott offers the following tips to avoid mosquito bites:

  • Minimize outdoor activities between dusk and dawn
  • Wear shoes and socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirts when mosquitoes are active
  • Use mosquito repellent, following label directions carefully
  • Make sure all windows and doors have screens, and that all screens are in good repair
  • Keep mosquitoes from laying eggs inside and outside of your home. Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out containers that hold water, such as vases, pet water bowls, flowerpot saucers, discarded tires, buckets, pool covers, birdbaths, trash cans and rain barrels